Stories Behind the Story with Better Reading

Stories Behind The Story: Linda Martin on Her Journey from Editor to Author

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Linda Martin talks to Cheryl about her career in publishing, editing techniques she's uncovered over the years, and her transition from editor to author. She also highlights the value of writing competitions and celebrates the richness of the Australian writing and reading community. Her book, A Tale of Two Publishing Houses, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Durkhanai Ayubi on Displacement, Food and Hope

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Durkhanai Ayubi talks to Cheryl about displacement, the beauty of food and its power to bring communities together. She also reflects on hope, resilience, and her family’s restaurant, sharing how these experiences have shaped her writing. Her book, She Who Tastes, Knows, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: James Colley & Christian White on Crime, Comedy and Their Kids

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Christian White (The Ledge, Clickbait) and James Colley (The Next Big Thing, Gruen) have a laugh and talk about writing with their partners, the difference between crime and comedy (and how they're also strangely similar), and how their habits have impacted their kids. Learn more about the two authors, James' inspiration behind his debut, Christian’s love for the film industry, and as always, the world of publishing in this new episode of Authors on Authors.

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Stories Behind The Story: Bernice Barry on Historical Fiction, Botany and Writing

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Bernice Barry talks to Cheryl about the magic of writing, the ways readers connect to stories, the complexities of historical fiction, Bernice’s transition from nonfiction to fiction, botany, Bernice's writing routine, and more. Her new book, The Names of a Hare, is out now

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Stories Behind the Story: JP Pomare and Michael Robotham on Crime and Twists

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 17:00:00 GMT

JP Pomare (Seventeen Years Later, In The Clearing) and Michael Robotham (Bombproof, When You Are Mine) talk about what it means to be guilty, their book tour in New Zealand and the crazy twists and turns that unfold during crime investigations. Learn more about the two authors, the reason behind the title of JP's newest book, tips and tricks on how Michael writes sequels, and as always, the publishing industry in this new episode of Authors on Authors.

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Stories Behind the Story: J.A. Stevens on Disability and Writing Her First Book

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 17:00:00 GMT

J.A. Stevens talks to Cheryl about her unique childhood, creating miniature love stories with her sister, and how living with a disability has shaped both her life and her writing. She also reflects on the importance of diversity in modern literature and the power of seeing complex characters on both the page and on screen. Her debut novel A Change of Pace is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Matt Stanton and Sarah Ayoub on Family and Kids Books

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Matt Stanton (Funny Kid series, The Odds series) and Sarah Ayoub (The Yearbook Committee, The Cult of Romance) have a laugh and reminisce on their relationship, their children and how they write books. Learn more about the two authors, how Matt wrote his latest Funny Kid novel, the different challenges Sarah faces when writing novels and kids picture books, and as always, the publishing industry in this new episode of Authors on Authors.

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Stories Behind The Story: John M. Green on Writing, Editing and A.I.

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 17:00:00 GMT

John M. Green talks to Cheryl about the power of asking “what if,” how the editing process can transform a book, the challenges and rewards of writing across different genres, and his thoughts on how AI is changing the world. His new book Staged is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Ian Kemish on Global Diplomacy and the Australian Economy

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Ian Kemish talks to Cheryl about the Australian economy, how global conflicts ripple across borders, and his decades of experience working in Australian foreign affairs. He also reflects on the complexities of diplomacy, the challenges of navigating international relationships and what it means to engage with a rapidly changing world. His new book, Two Islands, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Michael Mohammed Ahmad on Community, Grief and Writing

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Michael Mohammed Ahmad talks to Cheryl about supporting his community, how his writing has evolved over time and the deeply emotional heart of his latest book, Bugger. He also reflects on grief, vulnerability and what it means to write difficult themes and ideas. Bugger is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Crime Special with Christian White & Tim Ayliffe

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Join Cheryl Akle as she sits down with Christian White (The Long Night) and Tim Ayliffe (Dark Desert Road) for an insightful conversation about the Australian literary landscape. Together, the three explore the surge in Aussie crime and thriller books, the realities and roadblocks of getting published, and what it really takes to build a career as an Australian author.

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Stories Behind The Story: Joanna Nell and Ali Lowe on Families and Hard Work

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Joanna Nell (Mrs Winterbottom Takes a Gap Year, The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village) and Ali Lowe (The School Run, The Trivia Night) talk about their families and the hard work that goes into publishing a book. Learn more about the two authors, Ali's writing ritual, which involves a candle, Joanna's process on assessing in editing notes, and as always, the book industry in this new episode of Authors on Authors.

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Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #12

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Welcome to episode #12 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington where they discuss the impact of Australian literature, Caroline's writing journey, her thoughts on the rise of audiobooks, and the enduring appeal of traditional storytelling.

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Stories Behind The Story: Christian White on How His Daughter Changed His Writing

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Christian White talks to Cheryl about how becoming a parent has reshaped his writing and expanded his worldview, the influence his daughter now has on his creative process, and the unforgettable moment he spotted a stranger reading one of his novels in the wild. His latest book, The Long Night, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Rachel Perkins on Her Father, Colonisation and Australia's Future

Sun, 21 Dec 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Rachel Perkins talks to Cheryl about the continuing impact of colonisation on First Nations communities, the extraordinary legacy of her father, Charles Perkins, and his lasting influence on Australia. Rachel also speaks about the importance of the Aboriginal Australian flag as a symbol of identity and unity, and shares insights from The Australian Wars, the book she co-edited with Stephen Gapps, Mina Murray and Henry Reynolds. The Australian Wars is out now.

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Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #11

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Welcome to episode #11 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington, where they discuss the impact of Australian literature, Caroline's writing journey, her thoughts on the rise of audiobooks, and the enduring appeal of traditional storytelling.

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Stories Behind The Story: Loubna Haikal on Heritage, Immigration and the Power of Cooking

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Loubna Haikal talks to Cheryl about their Lebanese heritage, displacement, immigration and the quiet beauty of cooking with others. She also reflects on the collaborative process behind Don’t Ask the Trees for Their Names, the powerful collection she edited and co-wrote with eight other Arab women. The book is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Andrew Sloan on the Human Experience and the Future

Sun, 07 Dec 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Andrew Sloan talks to Cheryl about the human experience, the role of therapy, the future of our society and the inspiration behind his new book, Why Things Feel F*cked, which is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Heather Rose on Inspiration, Writing Across Ages and Shifting Worldviews

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Heather Rose talks to Cheryl about how worldviews have changed over time, discovering the story behind her latest book, A Great Act of Love, the moment she knew she wanted to be a writer, the influence of her father, and the difference between writing for children and adults. A Great Act of Love is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Omar El Akkad on Truth & Ignorance, From Guantánamo to Gaza

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Omar El Akkad joins Cheryl to discuss his latest book, One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This. Together, they explore his experiences reporting from places like Guantánamo Bay, examine the dangerous allure of ignorance, and reflect on the Gaza War and how it has shaped both their lives and the world. One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Susan Wyndham on Elizabeth Harrower and a Life in Literature

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Susan Wyndham talks to Cheryl about researching her latest book Elizabeth Harrower: The Woman in the Watch Tower, how her mother’s love of books shaped her own, her career in journalism, and her path to becoming one of Australia’s leading literary editors. Elizabeth Harrower: The Woman in the Watch Tower is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Jessica Mansour-Nahra on Her Debut, Pregnancy and Creativity

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Jessica Mansour-Nahra talks to Cheryl about writing her debut novel, The Farm, how her love of storytelling began, and the emotional challenges she experienced while pregnant. She shares what the publishing journey looked like for her and talks about the deep connection between creativity and motherhood. The Farm is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Marika Sosnowski on Law, Creative Writing, and the Making of 58 Facets

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Marika Sosnowski talks to Cheryl about how her background in law shapes her writing and the challenges of merging academic insight with creative expression. She shares her deeply personal and complex writing process, the role of human connection in her work, and how legal systems can shift depending on who is interpreting them. Her debut collection, 58 Facets, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Greg Haddrick on The Mushroom Murders and the Art of Storytelling

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Greg Haddrick talks to Cheryl about his acclaimed career in film and television, what drew him to the chilling real-life case of The Mushroom Murders, the complexities of covering the high-profile Erin Patterson trial, and the challenges faced by jurors. His latest book, The Mushroom Murders, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Chris Hammer on Journalism, Storytelling Craft and His Latest Thriller

Sun, 26 Oct 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Chris Hammer talks to Cheryl about his lifelong love of writing and how his career in journalism, including international reporting for Dateline, shaped his storytelling. He reflects on developing his craft, transitioning from nonfiction to fiction, and how fellow author Benjamin Stevenson helped bring Scrublands to life. His latest novel, Legacy, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Soren Tae Smith on Grief, Motherhood and Finding Solace in Storytelling

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Soren Tae Smith talks to Cheryl about the deeply personal process of writing her memoir, Honey from the Ground. She reflects on the loss of her son, the ongoing journey through grief, and the emotional challenges of continuing to parent after such a profound loss. She also shares how she discovered her desire to write, her love of novellas, and the role storytelling has played in her healing. Her memoir, Honey from the Ground, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Tim Winton on Ningaloo, the Power of Nonfiction and His Creative Process

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Award-winning author Tim Winton joins Cheryl to talk about his first nonfiction book for children, Ningaloo. He shares fascinating facts about the iconic reef and its diverse marine life, the creative challenges of making science both fun and visually engaging, and reflects on why this story is important to him and his hopes for the future. Ningaloo, which was illustrated by Cindy Lane, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Garry Disher on Being an Aussie Author, Touring Germany, and What Makes the Hirsch Series Unique

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Garry Disher talks to Cheryl about his pride in being an Australian author, his book tours in Germany, what sets his Hirsch series apart from other crime novels, and the complexities of Australia’s police forces. His latest book, Mischance Creek, is out September 30, 2025.

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Stories Behind The Story: Allison Rushby on Writing Across Genres, 25 Years of Storytelling, and the Journey to Slashed Beauties

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Allison Rushby talks to Cheryl about the differences between writing historical fantasy and middle grade fiction, her career before becoming an author, 25 years of writing books, and the highs and lows of publishing her latest novel, Slashed Beauties, which is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Chris Hammer & Caroline Overington on Aussie Books and The Rise of Self-Publishing

Sun, 14 Sep 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Chris Hammer (Scrublands, The Valley) and Caroline Overington (Last Woman Hanged, The Cuckoo's Cry) talk about Australian books, self-publishing and how their books have changed over time. Learn more about the two authors, how the TV adaptation of Scrublands has impacted Chris, Caroline's work at The Australian, and as always, the book industry in this new episode of Authors on Authors.

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Stories Behind The Story: Melina Marchetta & Tess Woods on Their Writing Journeys, Venice and Writing Different Genres

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Melina Marchetta (Looking for Alibrandi, The Piper's Son) and Tess Woods (The Venice Hotel, Beautiful Messy Love) have a chat about Melina's career, Venice and the difficulties of writing different genres. Learn more about the two authors, the importance of Looking for Alibrandi, not only for Melina, but also for Tess, and as always, the book industry in this new episode of Authors on Authors.

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Stories Behind The Story: Jackson Harvey & Alex Towler on Building Big with LEGO®, Creative Collaboration, and Their Exhibition in Sydney

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Jackson Harvey & Alex Towler talk to Cheryl about their LEGO® exhibition in Sydney, how they first met, what goes into creating their impressive builds, the impact LEGO® has had on their careers and lives, and the highs and lows of life on a press tour. Their book A New World Rises: Tales of a LEGO® Future, which they co-wrote with Cristy Burne, is out now!

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Stories Behind The Story: Lauren Chater & James Bradley on Being an Artist and the Impacts of the Pandemic

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Lauren Chater (Gulliver's Wife, The Winter Dress) and James Bradley (Clade, The Resurrectionist) talk about how they met, being an artist and the lasting impacts of the pandemic. Learn more about the two authors, how Sydney impacted James' career, the difficulties of writing, and as always, the book industry in this new episode of Authors on Authors.

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Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 9: Megan Kelleher

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Megan Kelleher talks to Cheryl about the many ways people share stories, her personal journey of self-discovery, the influence of her family on her worldview, and the significance of NAIDOC Week. Her debut, Snake Talk, which she co-wrote with Tyson Yunkaporta, is out September 2, 2025. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund.

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Stories Behind The Story: Michael Robotham & Dinuka McKenzie on the art of crafting interesting characters

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Michael Robotham (The Suspect, Good Girl, Bad Girl) and Dinuka McKenzie (The Torrent, Taken) discuss Michael's 20 years of publishing, the hardships of writing, the crime genre, what inspires their books and the art of crafting interesting characters. Learn more about the two authors, their publishing history, the number of words they've had to sacrifice, and of course, the publishing industry in this special episode of "Authors on Authors LIVE".

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Stories Behind The Story: Jacqueline Harvey & Kristin Darell on how they got into the publishing industry

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 02:30:45 GMT

Jacqueline Harvey (Alice-Miranda series, Kensy and Max series) and Kristin Darell (Taronga Presents series and Football Fever Series) share some laughs and talk about what inspires their books, how they got into the publishing industry, and believe it or not, koala poo. Learn more about the two authors, how Jacqueline once spied on MI6, Kristin's experience at Taronga Zoo, and as always, the book industry in this episode of "Authors on Authors".

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Stories Behind The Story: Caoilinn Hughes & Bri Lee on the differences between young and older readers

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Caoilinn Hughes (The Alternatives, Orchid & the Wasp) and Bri Lee (Eggshell Skull, Who Gets to Be Smart) share some laughs and talk about their latest books, the differences between young and older readers, how they met and how their books have impacted both their own lives and the lives of others. Learn more about the two authors, how they went on a 'Mafia Tour', the impacts of success, and of course, the publishing industry in this new episode of "Authors on Authors".

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Stories Behind The Story: January Gilchrist on Writing Beginnings, Blue Mountains Adventures, and Finding Her Voice at a Retreat

Sun, 27 Jul 2025 18:00:00 GMT

January Gilchrist talks to Cheryl about the beginnings of her writing journey, her adventures in the Blue Mountains and the transformative experience of attending a writing retreat. She also shares insights into the path to publication that ultimately led to her novel, The Final Chapter, which is out July 29, 2025.

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Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 8: Cheryl Leavy

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Cheryl Leavy talks to Cheryl Akle about the moment she realised she wanted to write her debut and its emotional connection to her mother, the role of poetry in contrast to First Nations language, her family heritage and its ties to the Stolen Generations, and the deeper meanings she’s woven into her own poetry. Her debut, Yanga Mother, which was illustrated by Christopher Bassi, is out now. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund.

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Stories Behind The Story: Karen Brooks on Brewing, Her Writing Journey and Bringing History to Life Through Fiction

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Karen Brooks talks to Cheryl about her family-run brewery in Hobart, the influence of feminism on her writing, how she approaches research for her historical fiction, her connection to fantasy stories and what lies ahead in her writing journey. Her latest book, The Whisky Widow, is out now.

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Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 7: Marly Wells

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Marly Wells talks to Cheryl about the inspirations that led her and her mother to co-write their first book, the global conflicts shaping today's world, embracing self-pride, her First Nations heritage, and the journey from manuscript to publication. Her debut, Desert Tracks, which she co-wrote with her mother, Linda Wells, is out now. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund.

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Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 6: Joshua Gilbert

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Joshua Gilbert talks to Cheryl about the history of agriculture in Australia, First Nations agricultural practices, the Equal Wages decision, the beauty of coming together, and the story of his family and the community they’ve been part of. His debut, Australia's Agricultural Identity - an Aboriginal yarn, is out now. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund.

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Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 5: Wanda Gibson

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Wanda Gibson talks to Cheryl about publishing her picture book, the influence of her childhood on her writing and illustrations, her connection to the Lutheran church, the impact the book has had on her and her family, and how her life has evolved over the years. Her debut, Three Dresses, is out now. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund.

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Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 4: Lenora Thaker

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Lenora Thaker talks to Cheryl about her Aboriginal Australian heritage, the impact of World War II on First Nations communities, her passion for writing and for Cairns, and the first book she ever read, which ended up sparking her love of reading. Her debut, The Pearl of Tagai Town, is out now. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund.

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Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 3: Natalia Figueroa Barroso

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Natalia Figueroa Barroso talks to Cheryl about her family's immigration journey, the deep longing many migrants feel for their homeland, the influence of her childhood on her writing and the pivotal role her grandmother played in getting her published in The Spanish Herald. Her debut, Hailstones Fell without Rain, is out August 5, 2025. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund.

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Stories Behind The Story: Fiona McKenzie Kekic on Turning Real-Life Experience and Industry Sexism into Page-Turning Fiction

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Fiona McKenzie Kekic talks to Cheryl about her parents, the real-life experiences that shaped her novel, her career in television, the groundbreaking book that exposed sexism in Australia's TV and news industry, and the journey to publishing her latest work, Eva Reddy's Trip of a Lifetime, which is out July 29, 2025.

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Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 2: Steve MinOn

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Steve MinOn talks to Cheryl about his unique cultural heritage, the significance of names, his career in advertising and how personal experiences shaped his first book. His debut, First Name Second Name, is out now. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund.

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Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight - Episode 1: Luke Patterson

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Luke Patterson talks to Cheryl about the art of poetry, the ways he weaves identity into his work, the significance of place in his writing, his First Nations heritage and the impact of his travels across Europe. His debut, A Savage Turn, is out August 12, 2025. Fresh Voices: A Debut Author Spotlight is sponsored by the Copyright Agency's The Cultural Fund.

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Stories Behind The Story: Jenny Ashcroft on How Real-Life Anonymous Letter Scandals Shaped Her Narrative

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Jenny Ashcroft talks to Cheryl about real-life anonymous letter cases, the thrill of writing historical fiction, and the power of community in the book world. Her latest novel, Secrets of the Watch House, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Michael Robotham on His 19th Book, Publishing Challenges and Bringing His Books to Screen

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Michael Robotham talks to Cheryl about his nineteenth novel, the evolution of the acclaimed Joe O'Loughlin series, the shifting landscape and challenges within today’s publishing industry and his experiences transforming his gripping stories into successful film and television adaptations. His latest book, The White Crow, is out now!

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Stories Behind The Story: Rachel Paris on How Power Imbalances and Toxic Masculinity Have Influenced Her Writing

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Rachel Paris talks to Cheryl about the challenges of navigating rejections, the timing of book releases, and the importance of perseverance. Her latest work, See How They Fall, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Angie Faye Martin on How Her Aboriginal Heritage Influenced Her Debut

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Angie Faye Martin talks to Cheryl about the challenges she encountered while writing her first book, her journey as a writer, the influence of her First Nations heritage on her identity and her career in government. Her debut, Melaleuca, is out now!

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Stories Behind The Story: Marian Keyes on Finding Joy, Feminism and Recovery Through Writing

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Marian Keyes talks to Cheryl about the life experiences that shaped her books. From her journey through addiction and recovery to her reflections on feminism, resilience and finding happiness in unexpected places, Marian shares how writing became both a lifeline and a source of joy. With her trademark wit and honesty, she reveals how personal hardship can fuel creativity and connection. Her latest book, My Favourite Mistake, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Madeleine Cleary on Dedication and Teamwork Behind Crafting Compelling Narratives

Sun, 25 May 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Madeleine Cleary talks to Cheryl about her path to publication, the importance of collaboration with editors, and how balancing a full-time job with writing has shaped her creative process. Her latest work, The Butterfly Women, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Omar Sakr on How Art Can Serve as Both Witness and Weapon

Thu, 22 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Omar Sakr talks to Cheryl about resistance, censorship, and the power of poetry to bring clarity, connection, and hope in turbulent times. His latest work in collaboration with illustrator Safdar Ahmed, The Nightmare Sequence, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Andrew HC McDonald on His Love for Languages

Sun, 18 May 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Andrew HC McDonald talks to Cheryl about his journey to publication, the editing process that transformed The Monticello School of Swearing, and his love for languages, including his experience learning Mandarin. He shares insights into the charm of Sicily, where his novel is set, the realities of book marketing, and the balance between passion and practicality in a writing career. His latest novel, The Monticello School of Swearing, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Cassie Hamer on How Her Background and Life Experiences Shape Her Fiction

Sun, 11 May 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Cassie Hamer talks to Cheryl about the importance of character development, the dynamics of the plot, and how Cassie’s personal experiences influence her storytelling. Her latest novel, A Stranger at The Table, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Isabel Allende on Being Honoured with a Barbie Tribute

Sun, 04 May 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Isabel Allende talks to Cheryl about being honoured with a Barbie doll in her likeness, writing during uncertain global times, and the importance of small acts of resistance and connection. Her latest novel, My Name is Emilia Del Valle, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Natasha Lester on Balancing Creativity with The Demands of Daily Life

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Natasha Lester talks to Cheryl about her writing process, the challenges of balancing creativity with the demands of daily life and how personal experiences influence her writing. Her latest novel, The Mademoiselle Alliance, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Renee Salt and Kate Thompson on the Importance of Sharing Stories to Honour the Past

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Renee Salt and Kate Thompson talk to Cheryl about Renee’s harrowing experiences during the Holocaust, her survival, and the lasting impact of trauma and resilience. Kate discusses how she captured Renee’s vivid memories through recorded conversations, exploring both the pain and the significance of remembering. Co-written by Kate Thompson and Holocaust survivor Renee Salt, A Mother’s Promise is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Patricia Wolf on How the Australian Landscape Becomes a Character in Her Latest Book

Sun, 13 Apr 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Patricia Wolf talks to Cheryl about identity, belonging, and the power of landscape in storytelling, as Patricia reflects on her two-decade-long life away from Australia and how the distance has changed her perspective on home. Her latest novel, Opal, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Jessie Burton on How Storytelling is a Compulsion and an Artistic Escape

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Jessie Burton talks to Cheryl about her fascination with World War I and its impact on ordinary people, the pressures of deadlines, and how storytelling is both a compulsion and a form of artistic escape. Her new novel, Hidden Treasure, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Andrea Thompson on The Challenges of Embracing her Identity and Finding Her Voice

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Andrea Thompson talks to Cheryl about her writing process, the challenges of embracing her identity and finding her voice, and how her personal experiences as a gender-diverse woman influenced her debut novel, Geraldine, which is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Amy Matthews on Her Journey Through Historical Romance and Romantic Comedies

Sun, 23 Mar 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Description: Amy Matthews talks to Cheryl about her journey through historical romance and romantic comedies. She discusses how her writing evolved from slow pre-writing to fast drafting once the characters and plot are set. The conversation also touches on the emotional depth of characters, the balance between commercial and literary fiction, and the creative challenge of juggling multiple writing projects. Her latest novel, Best, First and Last, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Ronni Salt on The Power of Social Media in Connecting with Readers

Sun, 16 Mar 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Ronni Salt talks to Cheryl about her journey to publication, tahe feedback that led to the creation of her debut novel Gunnawah, the importance of social media in connecting with readers, and how her experiences with editors and publishers have shaped her writing. Her latest novel, Gunnawah, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Emily Paull on the Importance of Authentic Historical Details

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Emily Paull sits down with Cheryl to discuss her journey into writing historical fiction, exploring how research and feedback play a crucial role in shaping her stories. She also shares insights into the freedom she feels being outside the constraints of a contract and the process of revising her debut novel, The Distance Between Dreams, which is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Mary-Lou Stephens on Her Journey From Radio to Writing

Sun, 02 Mar 2025 22:18:57 GMT

Mary-Lou Stephens talks to Cheryl about her journey from radio to writing, the joy of slow travel, and how her experiences inspire her creative projects like jam-making and crumpet-baking. Her latest novel, The Jam Maker, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Ashley Kalagian Blunt on How Illness Has Shaped Her Creative Practice

Sat, 22 Feb 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Ashley Kalagian Blunt talks to Cheryl about how her illness has shaped her writing, her love for true crime, and the challenges of drafting new novels. Her new book, Cold Truth, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Kate Horan on the challenges of getting published and the rapid success of her book deal.

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Kate Horan talks to Cheryl about her writing journey, the challenges of getting published and the mentorship she received. Her latest novel, The Inheritance, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Petronella McGovern & Margaret Hickey on growing up in small rural towns

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Petronella McGovern (Six Minutes, The Liars) and Margaret Hickey (Broken Bay, Stone Town) talk about their latest books, growing up in small rural towns, how to write thrillers and their lives outside of writing. Learn more about the two authors, their families, what inspired their latest books, and of course, the publishing industry in this new episode of "Authors on Authors".

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Stories Behind The Story: Rachael Johns and Belinda Alexandra on overcoming bad reviews and the intense pressure of deadlines

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Rachael Johns (The Other Bridget, Outback Dreams) and Belinda Alexandra (White Gardenia, The Mystery Woman) talk about their upcoming books, the mental health impacts of social media, overcoming bad reviews and the intense pressure of deadlines. Learn more about the two authors, their loveable cats, the darker side of writing, and of course, the publishing industry in this new episode of "Authors on Authors".

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Stories Behind The Story: Tim Ayliffe and Anna Downes on Being an Actor and a Journalist

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Tim Ayliffe (State of Fear, The Greater Good) and Anna Downes (The Shadow House, Red River Road) talk about their newest books, the first time they met and what has inspired their writing journeys so far. Learn more about the two authors, their exciting pasts as an actor and a journalist, and of course, the publishing industry in this new episode of "Authors on Authors".

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Stories Behind The Story: Michael Connelly and Candice Fox Talk About Their First Encounter in a New York City Bar

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 22:03:20 GMT

Michael Connelly (Resurrection Walking, Lincoln Lawyer) and Candice Fox (Devil's Kitchen, Crimson Lake) share some laughs and talk about their first encounter in a New York City bar. Learn more about the two authors, their books, and the publishing industry in this brand new series "Authors on Authors".

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Stories Behind The Story: Sara Haddad on Storytelling as Resistance and the Crisis in Palestine

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 00:46:03 GMT

Sara talks to Cheryl about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine, the power of storytelling as a form of resistance, and the inspiration behind her latest book, The Sunbird, which is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Penelope Janu on the Evolving Opportunities for Women in Literature

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 16:00:39 GMT

Penelope talks to Cheryl about the evolving opportunities for women in literature, her personal reflections on her beautiful home and garden, and the importance of research in crafting authentic, impactful stories. Her latest novel, The Summerfield Saddler, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Rose Carlyle on the delicate balance between creative expression and commercial expectations.

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 16:00:55 GMT

Rose Carlyle talks to Cheryl about her writing journey, the realities of the publishing industry, and the delicate balance between creative expression and commercial expectations. Her latest novel, No One Will Know, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Helen Garner on Writing, Age and The Seasons

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 16:00:01 GMT

Helen Garner talks to Cheryl about the art of writing nonfiction, her journey as an author over the years and how age has shaped her perspective on life. Her latest book, The Season, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Lainie Anderson on Kate Cookson's life as South Australia's first female police officer

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 16:00:27 GMT

Lainie Anderson talks to Cheryl about Kate Cookson's life as South Australia's first female police officer, the complex history of forced adoptions, and the research behind her new novel. The Death of Dora Black is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Kathy George on the Balance Between Family Life and Creativity

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Kathy George talks to Cheryl about the emotional challenges of publishing, the balance between family life and creativity, and her dedication to her latest book, The Scent of Oranges, which is out now.

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Stories Behind The Stories: David Whish-Wilson on His Journey from a Nomadic Childhood to a Successful Crime Novelist

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 17:00:11 GMT

David Wish-Wilson talks to Cheryl about his unconventional path to writing, his motivations for writing crime fiction and the significant themes he explores in his work. His latest novel Culter is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Tess Woods on on how tourism continues to strain Venice

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 16:00:19 GMT

Tess Woods speaks with Cheryl about the ongoing impact of tourism on Venice, her experiences navigating the publishing industry, and her upcoming book set in Cairo, which delves into themes of the Middle East and personal heritage. Her latest novel, The Venice Hotel, is available now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Christian White on the importance of trusting readers to engage actively with his stories

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 17:00:32 GMT

Christian White talks to Cheryl about how personal experiences, especially fatherhood and aging, influence his writing, the differences between crafting novels and screenplays, and the importance of trusting readers to engage actively with his stories. His latest novel, The Ledge, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Dr. Emma Beckett on the challenges of breaking free from the restrictive narratives of diet culture.

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 17:00:35 GMT

Dr. Emma Beckett talks to Cheryl about her passion for food-themed fashion, and the challenges of breaking away from the restrictive narratives that diet culture often imposes, particularly on women. Her latest book, You are More Than What You Eat, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Tim Winton on the connections between the personal struggles in his stories and real-world issues.

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 20:56:04 GMT

Tim Winton talks to Cheryl about his evolving worldview and the importance of community, highlighting how his work speaks to the complexities of life and the enduring hope for a better future. Tim Winton discusses the themes of survival, moral courage, and humanity in his latest novel, set in a dystopian future impacted by climate change. His latest novel, Juice, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Michael Connelly on Witnessing a Crime to Becoming a Crime Novelist

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 17:00:03 GMT

Michael Connelly talks to Cheryl Akle about his writing journey, from witnessing a crime to becoming a crime novelist, mentors, and the importance of place in novels. His latest novel, The Waiting, will be out in October 2024.

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Stories Behind The Story: Hasib Hourani on The Displacement and Dispossession of the Palestinian People

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 17:00:37 GMT

Hasib Hourani talks to Cheryl about the displacement and dispossession of the Palestinian people, as well as the broader context of global politics, media, and the ongoing conflict in Palestine. His latest work, rock flight, is out now.

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A Decade of Stories: Celebrating 10 Years of Better Reading

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 17:00:05 GMT

Caroline Overington sits down with Cheryl Akle, the founder of Better Reading, to celebrate its 10th birthday! They reflect on the journey of building a vibrant community of readers and writers, the challenges faced along the way, and the innovative ways Better Reading has fostered a love for books in Australia. Cheryl shares her insights into the evolution of the publishing landscape, the impact of technology on reading habits, and her passion for connecting authors with their audiences. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Better Reading, this episode offers a heartfelt look at a decade of literary celebration and what the future holds.

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Stories Behind The Story: Josh Bornstein on Corporate Power and the Fight for Free Speech

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 23:08:52 GMT

Josh Bornstein talks to Cheryl about corporate power, free speech, and the urgent need for a unified progressive agenda to tackle the various social and political crises confronting society today. His latest work, Working For The Brand, is out now.

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Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #10

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 17:00:22 GMT

Welcome to episode #10 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington where they discuss the impact of Australian literature, Caroline's writing journey, her thoughts on the rise of audiobooks, and the enduring appeal of traditional storytelling.

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Stories Behind The Story: Genevieve Gannon On The Importance Of Community-Based Journalism

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 17:00:50 GMT

Genevieve Gannon talks to Cheryl about the evolving landscape of journalism and literature, the influence of the pandemic on her writing, and the importance of community-based journalism. Her latest novel, Inheritance, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Harriet Constable and Her Commitment to Crafting a Narrative That Brings the Past to Life

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 17:00:31 GMT

Harriet Constable talks to Cheryl about her unconventional path to writing, her immersive research process in Venice, and the significant historical themes she explores in her work. Her latest novel,The Instrumentalist, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Nick Bryant on The Complex Interplay Between Politics and Society In The U.S.A.

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 17:00:23 GMT

Nick Bryant talks to Cheryl about the rise of populism, the media's influence on public perception, and the deep-seated culture wars shaping the landscape of the United States. His latest work, The Forever War, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Danielle Binks on the importance of reading without making it feel like a chore

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 17:00:06 GMT

Danielle Binks talks to Cheryl about the importance of promoting the joy of reading, the vital role of libraries in creating welcoming spaces, and how storytelling can nurture empathy and build community. Her latest YA novel, Six Summers of Tash and Leopold, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Mitch Wallis on fostering meaningful and empathetic conversations

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 17:00:14 GMT

Mitch Wallis talks to Cheryl about his personal journey, the challenges of vulnerability, particularly for men, and the importance of deep connection over transactional interactions. His latest book Real Conversations is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Briony Stewart on the special place children's literature holds in shaping young minds

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 18:30:03 GMT

Briony Stewart talks to Cheryl about her artistic journey, the role of creativity in storytelling, and the special place children's literature holds in shaping young minds. Her latest book,Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About the Tooth Fairy (And Some Things You Didn’t), is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Michael Robotham on Celebrating 20 Years of Writing and the Connections that Shaped His Career

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 18:30:03 GMT

Michael Robotham talks to Cheryl about celebrating his 20-year writing career, exploring the evolution of crime fiction, and sharing personal stories and insights into his writing process. His latest book, Storm Child, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: J.P. Pomare on the validation process through publishing

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 18:30:09 GMT

J.P. Pomare talks to Cheryl about the reality of writing as a profession, the validation process through publishing, and the necessity of building a support network. His latest novel, 17 Years Later, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Louise Candlish on the triumphs of being a long-standing author

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 20:00:41 GMT

Louise Candlish talks to Cheryl about her approach to writing, the evolution of reader expectations, and the challenges and triumphs of being a long-standing author. Her latest book, Our Holiday, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Andrew Caillard on the Evolution of the Australian Wine Industry.

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 20:11:45 GMT

Andrew Caillard talks to Cheryl about his unique perspective on the evolution of the Australian wine industry, his favorite Australian wine regions and writing a three-volume work. His latest work The Australian Ark, is now available

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Stories Behind The Story: Linwood Barclay on the pressures of sustaining success in the literary world

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 20:18:58 GMT

Linwood Barclay talks to Cheryl about the pressures of sustaining success in the literary world, the evolution of crime writing over the years, and the challenges of following up a successful book. His latest novel, I Will Ruin You, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Amy Neff on Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 20:02:13 GMT

Amy Neff talks to Cheryl Akle about her ten-year journey to becoming an author, profound connections, and finding inspiration in the little moments of everyday life. Her debut novel, The Days I Loved You Most, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Anna Johnston on Humanising Older Adults Through Storytelling

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 23:59:10 GMT

Anna Johnston talks to Cheryl about aging, empathy, and the importance of storytelling in understanding and humanising the experiences of older adults. Her latest book The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Jane Sullivan on The Evolution of Journalism and the Representation of Women in Literature

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 23:21:00 GMT

Jane Sullivan talks to Cheryl about the evolution of journalism, the representation of women in literature, and the importance of research in historical writing. Her latest book Murder in Punch Lane is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Caroline Overington on the evolving landscape of Australian literature

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 22:30:14 GMT

Caroline Overington talks to Cheryl about the evolving landscape of Australian literature, the rise of audiobooks and the enduring appeal of printed books. Her latest book, Looking for Eden, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Tim Sharp on Navigating Happiness and Growth

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 20:00:00 GMT

Tim Sharp talks to Cheryl about self-awareness, learning from experiences, and embracing personal strengths. His latest book Lost & Found is out now.

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Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #9

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 20:18:05 GMT

Welcome to episode #9 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington where they discuss the Australian Fiction Prize, the growing popularity of romance and historical fiction and finding meaning through literature.

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Stories Behind The Story: Stella Quinn on Her Inspirations From Real-Life Events and Characters

Sun, 21 Jul 2024 23:09:21 GMT

Stella Quinn talks to Cheryl about her journey from accountant to award-winning romance author, her disciplined writing routine, and her inspirations from real-life events and characters. Her latest novel, Down the Track, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Jake Adelstein on Working in Japan and His Career Trajectory as a Journalist

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 17:01:24 GMT

Jake Adelstein talks to Cheryl about living in Japan, the challenges of assimilating into Japanese society, and his career trajectory as a journalist. His latest novel, Tokyo Noir, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Julia Lawrinson on The Unconventional Relationships and Identity Exploration

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 20:37:00 GMT

Julia Lawrinson talks to Cheryl about mental health, identity exploration, and unconventional relationships. Her memoir, How to Avoid a Happy Life, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Francesca de Tores on Unveiling Gender Identity Through Historical Fiction

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 02:07:00 GMT

Francesca de Torres talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey from poetry to historical fiction, the complexities of gender identity and literary inspirations. Her latest book Saltblood is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Rachel Treasure on The Transformative Power of Literature in Advocating for Change

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 20:07:35 GMT

Rachel Treasure talks to Cheryl about her advocacy for environmental stewardship, sustainability, and the transformative power of literature in advocating for change. Her latest novel, Milking Time, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Jo Peck on Embracing New Beginnings Later in Life.

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 23:29:11 GMT

Jo Peck talks to Cheryl about overcoming adversity, finding strength in vulnerability, and embracing new beginnings later in life. Her memoir, Suddenly Single at Sixty, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Lauren Chater on the allure of historical fiction and the inspiration behind timeless human experiences

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 02:06:17 GMT

Lauren Chater talks to Cheryl Akle about the power and inspiration of storytelling, the significance of historical fiction and the continuity of human nature. Her fourth novel, The Beauties, is out now.

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Stories Behind The Story: Isabel Allende on the power of reading and the impact of bullying on children.

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 03:37:27 GMT

Isabel Allende talks to Cheryl Akle about the impact of bullying on children, the importance of a good illustrator and the story behind the real dog Perla. Her latest children's book: Perla The Mighty Dog, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Lisa Medved on art, travel and writing historical fiction

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 02:25:12 GMT

Lisa Medved talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey from Melbourne to The Hague, how fine arts sparked creativity, and her five-year self-taught adventure in writing historical fiction. Her latest novel, The Engraver’s Secret, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Nat's What I Reckon on mental health, cooking and how quickly life can change

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 03:49:37 GMT

Cheryl Akle and Nat's What I Reckon shared a stage at the Words on the Waves Festival to talk about food, mental health and how quickly life can change. The panel was recorded live and we hope you enjoy the conversation.

Explicit Language Warning

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Stories Behind the Story: Catherine Doyle on merging fantasy with real-world themes

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 00:50:02 GMT

Catherine Doyle talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey to publication and how she merges fantasy elements with real-world themes in her writing. Her latest novel, Pirates of Darksea, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Petronella McGovern on memories and her mother's influence on her writing journey

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 02:05:50 GMT

Petronella McGovern talks to Cheryl about the significance of memories, truth, and how her experiences with her mother influenced her work. Don't miss her new book, The Last Trace, which is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Ariane Beeston on motherhood, madness and coming back from the brink

Mon, 27 May 2024 04:22:14 GMT

Ariane Beeston talks to Cheryl Akle about the pressures of motherhood and her experience with postpartum psychosis. Her memoir, Because I'm Not Myself, You See, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Barbara Sumner on the forgotten female convicts of colonial Australia

Thu, 23 May 2024 01:31:34 GMT

Barbara Sumner talks to Cheryl Akle about her unique path to publication and what inspired her to write her striking debut novel, The Gallows Bird, which is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Venita Dimos on the vital skills children learn through reading

Mon, 20 May 2024 01:48:09 GMT

Venita Dimos talks to Cheryl Akle about the power of children’s fiction and how her Mini & Milo series teaches vital skills for childhood development.

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Stories Behind the Story: Garry Disher on his unique approach to crime fiction

Mon, 13 May 2024 02:48:05 GMT

Bestselling author Garry Disher talks to Cheryl Akle about his research process and approach to writing crime fiction. His latest novel, Sanctuary, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Geoffrey Robertson on The Trial of Vladimir Putin

Mon, 06 May 2024 02:05:53 GMT

Geoffrey Robertson QC talks to Cheryl Akle about his unique perspective on Vladimir Putin, international law and human rights. His latest book, The Trial of Vladimir Putin, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Diane Armstrong on what makes historical fiction personal

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 01:48:44 GMT

Diane Armstrong talks to Cheryl Akle about focusing on the personal aspect of history and the incredible woman who inspired her latest novel, The Wild Date Palm, which is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Bradley Trevor Greive on how we find our way back from tragedy

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 02:32:16 GMT

Bradley Trevor Grieve talks to Cheryl Akle about what makes a story feel personal and how he chooses his projects. His latest book, Broken Girl, is out now.

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BE Better: Tim Duggan on how to Work Backwards

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 18:00:53 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Tim Duggan talks to Jane about finding work-life balance in simple yet radical ways. His book, Work Backwards, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Sarah Bailey on how she reconnected with her love of writing

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 01:14:17 GMT

Sarah Bailey talks to Cheryl Akle about reconnecting with her love of writing and her journey to publication. Her latest thrilling novel, Body of Lies, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Jackie French on hearing what wombats have to say

Sun, 14 Apr 2024 18:00:15 GMT

Bestselling author Jackie French talks to Cheryl Akle about writing, wombats and historical fiction. Her latest book, The Sea Captain's Wife, is out now.

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BE Better: Simone Callahan on Growing with Grace

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 18:00:50 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Simone Callahan talks to Jane about yoga, gratitude and finding inner peace. Her book, Growing with Grace, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Vikki Wakefield on the craft of writing across genres

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 02:56:48 GMT

Vikki Wakefield talks to Cheryl Akle about her path to publication and how she writes across genres, from YA to crime. Her latest novel, To the River, is out now.

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BE Better: Gyan Yankovich on Just Friends

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 23:06:14 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Gyan Yankovich talks to Jane about modern friendship, losing friends, ending friendships... and making new ones. Her book, Just Friends, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: James Norbury on Big Panda and Tiny Dragon being an audiobook

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 17:00:08 GMT

Writer and artist James Norbury talks to Cheryl about life, art and having his bestselling book Big Panda and Tiny Dragon turned into an audiobook.

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Stories Behind the Story: Trish Bolton on ageism, grief and the lives of older women

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 00:22:01 GMT

Trish Bolton talks to Cheryl Akle about how her latest novel, Whenever You're Ready, shines a light on the lives of older women.

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Stories Behind the Story: Glenna Thomson on writing complex family dynamics

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 01:51:16 GMT

Glenna Thomson talks to Cheryl Akle about exploring the complexities of familial relationships in her latest thrilling novel, Gone, which is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Rachael Johns on editing, publishing and a change of direction

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 23:17:51 GMT

Bestselling author Rachael Johns talks to Cheryl Akle about publishing, changing direction, and the books that inspired her latest novel, The Other Bridget, which is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Jane Tara on getting older and being visible

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 17:00:36 GMT

Jane Tara talks to Cheryl about ageing, being visible... and the day she got the job at Better Reading. Her novel, Tilda is Visible, is out now.

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BE Better: Jodi Rodgers on being Unique

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 23:40:34 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Star of ABC TV's Love on the Spectrum Jodi Rodgers talks to Jane about working with the autistic community. Her book, Unique: What autism can teach us about difference, connection and belonging, is out now.

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Conversations from the Vault: Julia Baird: on winning the ABIA Book of the Year

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 01:01:56 GMT

We've had some amazing guests on the podcast over the years, so we're sharing a few old favourites from the vault. Award-winning author Julia Baird talks to Cheryl Akle about winning the 2021 ABIA Book of the Year for Phosphorescence, and how the world has changed since its release.

If you enjoyed this conversation, see Julia Baird in person at the 2024 Manly Writers Festival.

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Stories Behind the Story: Simone Amelia Jordan on being Australia's most successful hip-hop journalist

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 01:03:12 GMT

Simone Amelia Jordan talks to Cheryl Akle about how she went from a kid in the inner-west to a New York hip-hop journalist with a career spanning print, radio, TV, and digital media. Her memoir, Tell Her She's Dreamin', is out now.

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Conversations from the Vault: Tom Keneally on exploring rural Australia through fiction

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 01:58:42 GMT

We've had some amazing guests on the podcast over the years, so we're sharing a few old favourites from the vault. Award-winning author Tom Keneally talks to Cheryl Akle about his extraordinary legacy and exploring rural Australia through fiction.

If you enjoyed this conversation, see Tom Keneally in person at the 2024 Manly Writers Festival.

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Stories Behind the Story: Simon Rowell on good dogs and oil rigs

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 17:00:47 GMT

Simon Rowell talks to Cheryl Akle about service dogs, oil rigs and about writing a female protagonist. His latest novel, The Good Dog, is out now.

Photographer: Darren James

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Stories Behind the Story: Kemper Donovan on Agatha Christie, Scriptwriting and Podcasting

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 00:29:50 GMT

Kemper Donovan talks to Cheryl Akle about Agatha Christie, and how she consistently inspires his work, from podcasts to novels. His latest book, The Busy Body, is out now.

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BE Better: Lizzie Williamson on The Active Workday Advantage

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 22:21:15 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Lizzie Williamson talks to Jane Tara about incorporating micro moves into your daily routine. Her book, The Active Workday Advantage, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Victoria Vanstone on how sobriety changed her life

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 23:57:51 GMT

Victoria Vanstone talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey to sobriety and how it saved her life. Her memoir, A Thousand Wasted Sundays, is out now.

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What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Jack Heath

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 01:04:55 GMT

Award-winning author Jack Heath talks to Cheryl Akle about what he's reading. His latest novel, Kill Your Husbands, is out now.

Books discussed:

If This Book Exists, You're in the Wrong Universe by Jason Pargin

Killing Aurora by Helen Barnes

Tipping Point by Dinuka McKenzie

A Thousand Wasted Sundays by Victoria Vanstone

Shades of Gray by Jasper Fforde

Red Side Story by Jasper Fforde

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What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Shelley Burr

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 00:21:57 GMT

Bestselling author Shelley Burr talks to Cheryl Akle about what she’s reading. Her latest novel, Ripper, is out now.

Books discussed:

The Banksia House Breakout by James Roxburgh

Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett

Tipping Point by Dinuka McKenzie

The Eleventh Floor by Kylie Orr

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What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Josephine Moon

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 22:32:01 GMT

Bestselling author Josephine Moon talks to Cheryl Akle about what she’s reading. Her latest novel, The Wonderful Thing about Phoenix Rose, is out now.

Books discussed:

The Takedown by Lily Chu

The Heart is a Star by Megan Rogers

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

Ten Steps to Nanette by Hannah Gadsby

The Benevolent Society of Ill-Mannered Ladies by Alison Goodman

The Chocolate Factory by Mary-Lou Stephens

Tilda is Visible by Jane Tara

The Other Bridget by Rachael Johns

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Stories Behind the Story: Elizabeth Coleman on what makes a good mystery

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 00:30:44 GMT

Elizabeth Coleman talks to Cheryl Akle about writing for Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries and what draws her to the genre. Her latest novel, A Dance with Murder, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Kate Ceberano on what inspires, humbles, hurts and sustains her

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 01:31:26 GMT

Kate Ceberano talks to Cheryl Akle about her legendary career in music and why now was the time to write her memoir, Unsung, which is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Sarah Barrie on juggling biker gangs with farm life

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 02:11:56 GMT

Sarah Barrie talks to Cheryl Akle about juggling her writing and criminal research while running her farm. Her latest novel, Vendetta, is out now.

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What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: James Colley

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 17:00:00 GMT

Comedian and author James Colley talks to Cheryl Akle about what he’s reading. His debut, The Next Big Thing, is out January 30.

Books discussed:

Everyone and Everything by Nadine J. Cohen

The Bee Sting by Paul Murray

Chain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah

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What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Jodi McAlister

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 17:00:22 GMT

Academic and bestselling author Jodi McAlister talks to Cheryl Akle about what she’s reading. Jodi’s latest book, Not Here to Make Friends, is out now.

Books discussed:

Lace by Shirley Conran

Tackle by Jilly Cooper

Never Ever Forever by Karina May

Love and Other Scores by Abra Pressler

Italian Marriage by Jenna Lo Bianco

Love Just In by Natalie Murray

The Collected Works of Jackie Collins (reissues)

The latest ‘Romance Class ‘releases – a self-publishing collective from the Philippines

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What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Esmé Louise James

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 17:00:22 GMT

Academic and social media superstar Esmé Louise James talks to Cheryl Akle about what she’s reading. Esme’s book, Kinky History, is out now.

Books discussed:

Sex: Two Billion Years of Procreation and Recreation by David Baker

Philippa Gregory’s historical novels

I Don’t by Clementine Ford

50 Shades of Grey by EL James

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What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Kate Mildenhall

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 17:00:34 GMT

Bestselling author Kate Mildenhall talks to Cheryl Akle about what she’s reading. Kate's latest book, The Hummingbird Effect, is out now.

Books discussed (NB: Some titles might not be published yet)

Sidelines by Karen Viggers

The Strip by Iain Ryan

The Diary of a Bookseller by Shaun Bythell

Women & Children by Tony Birch

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Book Chat: Listen to our Christmas episode with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 17:00:20 GMT

It's the final Book Chat of 2023, with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington discussing Christmas, Trent Dalton, Bryan Brown (again), and what everyone is reading over the summer.

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Stories Behind the Story: Joanna Nell on retirement and ageing gracefully

Sun, 17 Dec 2023 23:38:54 GMT

Joanna Nell talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience working as a GP, ageing gracefully and preparing for retirement. Her latest novel, Mrs Winterbottom Takes A Gap Year, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Tony Birch on surviving domestic violence, writing and family

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 00:50:59 GMT

Tony Birch talks to Cheryl Akle about his exploration of domestic violence, family and love, and how it inspired his latest novel, Women & Children, which is out now.

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Lina Jebeile: on food, culture and Lebanese cuisine

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 02:41:22 GMT

Lina Jebeile talks to Cheryl Akle about their love of food, culture and Lebanese cuisine. You can find Lina at thelebaneseplate.com.

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BE Better: Sydel Sierra on her own Metamorphosis

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 17:00:39 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Sydel Sierra talks to Jane Tara about being groomed in one of the most horrific child abuse stories you’ll hear, and her incredible journey to healing. Her book, Metamorphosis, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Amal Awad on the experience of migrant women

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 00:34:14 GMT

Amal Awad talks to Cheryl Akle about the experience of migrant women and the importance of cultural identity. Her latest novel, Bitter and Sweet, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Richard Osman on old-school mystery novels and ageing

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 00:51:46 GMT

Richard Osman talks to Cheryl Akle about exploring ageing and capturing the feeling of old-school mysteries in his latest novel, The Last Devil to Die, which is out now.

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BE Better: David Michie on meditation and The Dalai Lama’s Cat

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 17:00:02 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – David Michie talks to Jane Tara about meditation, and his bestselling series The Dalai Lama's Cat. The latest book in the series, The Claw of Attraction, is out now.

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Stories Behind the Story: Jess McGeachin on growing up in a museum

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 23:10:34 GMT

Jess McGeachin talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up in a museum and how it inspired his blend of science, illustration and writing in his series of picture books, Deep, Lost and High.

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Stories Behind the Story: Matt Preston on the food that shapes us

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 23:29:26 GMT

Matt Preston talks to Cheryl Akle about how food brings people together, his career, and what inspired him to write his memoir, Big Mouth, which is out now.

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BE Better: Tom Cronin on meditation

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 23:39:37 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Tom Cronin talks to Jane Tara about meditation for stress, health and peace. His book, The Portal, is out now.

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Rachelle Unreich: on the brilliant life of her mother

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 01:16:29 GMT

Rachelle Unreich talks to Cheryl Akle about her mother's horrifying, heartbreaking and hopeful Holocaust experience. Her book, A Brilliant Life, is out now.

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Chris Hammer: on journalism, crime, and how his writing has evolved

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 23:56:18 GMT

Chris Hammer talks to Cheryl Akle about how his writing has evolved over time and how his career as a journalist helped him write crime. His latest book, The Seven, is out now.

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Antony Loewenstein: on the escalation of the Israel-Palestine conflict

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 23:17:55 GMT

Cheryl Akle and Antony Loewenstein continue their conversation about the Israel-Palestine conflict, how it escalated, and how we move forward. His book, The Palestine Laboratory, is out now.

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Trent Dalton: on finding light in the darkest of places

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 00:24:18 GMT

Trent Dalton talks to Cheryl Akle about how we overcome terrifying tragedy and find the light in the darkest of places. His latest novel, Lola in the Mirror, is out now.

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Bryan Brown: on his legendary career, from acting to writing

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 01:05:57 GMT

Bryan Brown talks to Cheryl Akle about how storytelling has always been a part of his life, from acting to writing. His novel, The Drowning, is out now.

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Murder and Mystery: A Crime Author Panel

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 17:00:17 GMT

Better Reading recently hosted a crime author panel with Karen Herbert, Dave Warner and David Whish-Wilson in conversation with Cheryl Akle for an evening discussing crime fiction.

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Robyn Davidson: on trekking across 1700 miles of the Australian Outback

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 02:28:07 GMT

Robyn Davidson talks to Cheryl Akle about what inspired her trek across 1700 miles of the Australian Outback, and how she's learned to reflect on her life and her mother. Her memoir, Unfinished Woman, is out now.

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Tea Cooper: on uncovering the history of Mrs Greenway

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 17:00:19 GMT

Tea Cooper talks to Cheryl Akle about how she finds inspiration for her novels, and uncovering the history and life of Mrs Mary Greenway. Her latest novel, The Talented Mrs Greenway, is out now.

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Katrina Strickland: on The Good Weekend and the power of memoirs

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 22:42:59 GMT

Katrina Strickland talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience as editor of The Good Weekend, the power of memoirs and what makes them so popular.

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Melissa Ashley: on giving a voice to forgotten women in history

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 01:46:35 GMT

Melissa Ashley talks to Cheryl Akle about giving a voice to the long-ignored women who shaped our understanding of the natural world – both the artists and those who made their work possible. Her latest novel, The Naturalist of Amsterdam, is out now.

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BE Better: Esmé Louise James on Kinky History

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 17:00:01 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Esmé Louise James talks to Jane Tara about sex, sex and more sex… and also some very Kinky History. Her book is out now.

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Tara Wigley: on simplifying recipes for everyday cooks

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 17:00:39 GMT

Tara Wigley talks to Cheryl Akle about her cookbook writing process, and how she's simplifying cooking in her latest cookbook, How to Butter Toast, which is out now.

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Levi Pinfold: on Harry Potter, illustrating and picture books

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 23:55:14 GMT

Levi Pinfold talks to Cheryl Akle about his illustration process, and his experience working collaboratively on The Harry Potter Wizarding Almanac, which is out now.

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BE Better: Kaz Cooke on menopause

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 23:46:46 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Kaz Cooke talks to Jane Tara about the highs and lows of perimenopause and menopause. Her book, It’s The Menopause, is out now.

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Rachel Matthews: on the absurdity and challenges of modern dating

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 17:00:20 GMT

Dr Rachel Matthews talks to Cheryl Akle about the obsession with never looking desperate and the modern dating landscape. Her latest novel, Never Look Desperate, is out now.

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Tricia Stringer: on setting her new novel on The Ghan

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 02:17:05 GMT

Tricia Stringer talks to Cheryl Akle about how ageism and The Ghan influenced her latest novel, Back on Track.

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BE Better: Penny Moodie on OCD and The Joy Thief

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 17:00:08 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Penny Moodie talks to Jane Tara about navigating the complex world of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Her book, The Joy Thief, is out now.

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Clare Fletcher: on journalism, rom-coms and writing

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 23:37:42 GMT

Clare Fletcher talks to Cheryl Akle about journalism, her writing experience with Emily Maguire, and what goes into a good rom-com. Her latest novel, Love Match, is out now.

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Heather Morris: on the forgotten women of WWII

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 01:41:15 GMT

Heather Morris talks to Cheryl Akle about the brave women in WWII that history forgot, and how she shines a light on their experiences in her latest book, Sisters Under the Rising Sun.

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Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #8

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 17:00:04 GMT

Welcome to episode #8 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington, where they discuss memoirs, crime authors, Dave Warner's wife, Bryan Brown, the annual Top 50 Kids list, some great new releases... and Bryan Brown.

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Mariah Sweetman: on being inspired by the fastest man in Australia (her great-great grandfather)

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 17:00:50 GMT

Mariah Sweetman talks to Cheryl Akle about how both her great-great grandfather and the Deebing Creek Massacre inspired her novel. Robert Runs is out now.

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Zeno Sworder: on illustrating the story of his parents' migrant experience

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 17:00:09 GMT

Zeno Sworder talks to Cheryl Akle about how his family's immigration story inspired his award-winning picture book, My Strange Shrinking Parents, which is out now.

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BE Better: Dr Tara Swart on The Source

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 18:00:13 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Neuroscientist Dr Tara Swart talks to Jane Tara about the brain and explains how neuroplasticity is the key to manifesting what you desire. Her book, The Source, is out now.

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Kelly Rimmer: on the WWII spies that inspired The Paris Agent

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 02:29:40 GMT

Kelly Rimmer talks to Cheryl Akle about the work involved in owning a bookstore, and the female Special Operations Executive agents of WWII who inspired her latest novel, The Paris Agent.

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Leigh Sales: on the power of telling other people's stories

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 01:20:47 GMT

Leigh Sales talks to Cheryl Akle about storytelling, the power of journalism and its influence on the world. Her book, Storytellers, is out now.

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BE Better: Rachael Coopes on Paris for Beginners

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 05:04:46 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Actress Rachael Coopes talks to Jane Tara about finding herself again in Paris. Her memoir, Paris for Beginners, is out now.

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Lucy Leonardi: on food waste and becoming Food Wise

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 18:00:51 GMT

Photographer and food blogger, Lucy Leonardi talks to Cheryl Akle about fighting food waste and saving the planet. Her children’s book, Foodwise, written with Lucy Bell, is out now.

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Sasha Wasley: on the league of photographers that inspired Snapshots from Home

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 01:43:44 GMT

Sasha Wasley talks to Cheryl Akle about her latest novel, Snapshots from Home, and the real league of amateur photographers that inspired her.

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Melanie Saward: on exploring the cycle of intergenerational trauma

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 23:59:55 GMT

Melanie Saward talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey to publication and how her debut novel, Burn, explores the cycle of intergenerational trauma.

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Shelley Burr: on the challenges of writing her second book

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 01:54:45 GMT

Shelley Burr talks to Cheryl Akle about the success of her debut novel, WAKE, and how she approached writing her follow-up novel, Ripper, which is out now.

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Martin Flanagan: on his harrowing boarding school experience

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 18:00:47 GMT

Content Warning: Mentions of sexual abuse

Martin Flanagan talks to Cheryl Akle about his harrowing years at boarding school and how they impacted his life going forward. His memoir, The Empty Honour Board, is out now.

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Kate Mildenhall: on exploring all aspects of womanhood

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 01:05:32 GMT

Kate Mildenhall talks to Cheryl Akle about blending many different genres in her writing, and how she explores all aspects of womanhood in her latest novel, The Hummingbird Effect.

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Charles Prouse: On the Voice to Parliament

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 18:00:16 GMT

Charles Prouse talks to Cheryl Akle about what a 'yes' vote in the Voice to Parliament referendum will mean and why it is important. His book, On the Voice to Parliament, is out now.

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Scott Bennett: on the soldier that inspired him to write fiction

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 01:37:20 GMT

Scott Bennett talks to Cheryl Akle about the challenges of moving from non-fiction to fiction, the changes in his writing process, and the soldier that inspired his novel, Night in Passchendaele.

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Karen Brooks: on bringing history to life

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 18:00:10 GMT

Karen Brooks talks to Cheryl Akle about her love of history and how she brought London's Restoration theatre to life in her latest novel, The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson.

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Vanessa McCausland: on what it means to dream in French

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 01:28:33 GMT

Vanessa McCausland talks to Cheryl Akle about journalism, women's fiction and how her experience as an au pair in France inspired her latest novel, Dreaming in French.

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Roger Simpson: on how characters evolve over time

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 00:43:53 GMT

Roger Simpson talks to Cheryl Akle about creating the character of Jane Halifax and how she's evolved. His latest book, Resurrection, is out now.

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Emily Perkins: on identity, visibility and feminism

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 02:41:07 GMT

Emily Perkins talks to Cheryl Akle about her latest novel, Lioness, a brave and illuminating exploration of identity that exposes the chasm between what one believes and how one actually lives.

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Dianne Yarwood: on the near-death experience that inspired her debut

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 00:24:54 GMT

Dianne Yarwood talks to Cheryl Akle about her brush with mortality, its importance, and how it inspired her debut novel, The Wakes.

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Alli Parker: on Australia's first Japanese war bride

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 00:34:39 GMT

Alli Parker talks to Cheryl Akle about the incredible, personal true story of Australia's first Japanese war bride, and how her grandparents' love changed Australia forever. Her debut novel, At the Foot of the Cherry Tree, is out now.

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Ben Mckelvey: on trauma, change and resilience

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 18:00:00 GMT

Ben McKelvey talks to Cheryl Akle about the impact of trauma and changing the way we think about it in his memoir, A Scar is Also Skin.

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Mark Brandi: on small-town life, poverty and class

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 00:52:07 GMT

Mark Brandi talks to Cheryl Akle about class and poverty in small towns and how they affect the community. His latest novel, Southern Aurora, is out now.

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BE Better: Kerri Sackville on The Secret Life of You

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 01:52:08 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Kerri Sackville talks to Jane Tara about how a bit of alone time can change your life, relationships, and maybe even the world. Her book, The Secret Life of You, is out now.

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Nicole Madigan: on the disturbing phenomenon of stalking

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 18:00:29 GMT

Nicole Madigan talks to Cheryl Akle about her own experience with stalking and how it lead to her writing Obsession, a blend of memoir, investigation and expert analysis.

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Ayesha Inoon: on the cultural differences that shape identity

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 01:14:24 GMT

Ayesha Inoon talks to Cheryl Akle about cultural differences and how her experience immigrating to Australia influenced her novel, Untethered.

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BE Better: Amanda Thompson on Financially Fit Women

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 23:58:50 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Amanda Thompson talks to Jane Tara about women, finances, and taking control of your own future. Her book Financially Fit Women is out now.

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Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #7

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 01:22:49 GMT

Welcome to episode #7 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington. Cheryl and Caroline love nothing more than talking about books, so we figured we’d share that with you. They discuss book and industry news, authors… and maybe even a little gossip.

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Anna Funder: on feminism, marriage and Wifedom

Sun, 16 Jul 2023 18:00:55 GMT

Anna Funder talks to Cheryl Akle about what it means to be a wife, feminism, and how George Orwell's wife, Eileen O’Shaughnessy, inspired her latest book, Wifedom.

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BE Better: Bec Wilson on How to Have an Epic Retirement

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 18:00:33 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Bec Wilson talks to Jane Tara about money, health, happiness, and How to Have an Epic Retirement (at any age).

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Megan Rogers: on the beautiful messiness of midlife

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 01:02:21 GMT

Megan Rogers talks to Cheryl Akle about the complicated yet beautiful messiness of midlife, family, self-care, and writing her debut novel, The Heart is a Star.

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Fiona Lowe: on the Ponzi scheme that inspired her novel

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 01:55:42 GMT

Fiona Lowe talks to Cheryl Akle about the real-life Ponzi scheme that affected her community and how it inspired her latest novel, The Money Club.

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BE Better: Kate Christie on The Life List

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 00:30:06 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Kate Christie talks to Jane Tara about goal setting, embracing ageing, and living an audacious life. Her book, The Life List, is out now.

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Isabel Allende: on exploring the relationship between mother and child

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 02:09:08 GMT

Isabel Allende talks to Cheryl Akle about why she explores the relationship between mother and child in her latest novel, The Wind Knows My Name.

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BE Better: Melissa Levi reminds us that We Need to Talk About Ageing

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 18:00:17 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Clinical psychologist Melissa Levi talks to Jane Tara about what to expect as you get older, making plans with elderly loved ones, and her book, We Need to Talk About Ageing.

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Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #6

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 18:00:54 GMT

Welcome to episode #6 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington. Cheryl and Caroline love nothing more than talking about books, so we figured we’d share that with you. They discuss book and industry news, authors… and maybe even a little gossip.

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Susan Paterson: on exploring the power of art in her debut novel

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 01:15:53 GMT

Susan Paterson talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience with the Varuna Fellowship, and how her ancestor's painting inspired her debut novel, Where Light Meets Water, which is out now.

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James Comey: on the FBI, mob trials and writing crime

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 18:00:00 GMT

Former FBI Director James Comey talks to Cheryl Akle about his extensive time in law enforcement, and the real-life mob trial that inspired his debut novel, Central Park West, which is out now.

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BE Better: Paul McKenna on Finding Freedom from Anxiety

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 23:51:17 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast –Self-help superstar Paul McKenna is the UK’s most successful non-fiction author. Here, he talks to Jane Tara about anxiety, the mind, subconscious re-programming and his latest book, Freedom From Anxiety, which is out now.

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Naima Brown: on exploring the dark side of reality TV

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 01:40:30 GMT

Naima Brown talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience living in the Middle East and how her time in the reality TV industry inspired her debut novel, The Shot, which is out now.

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BE Better: Belinda Alexandra on being Emboldened

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 00:02:42 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Belinda Alexandra talks to Jane Tara about passion, purpose and connection. Her latest book Emboldened is an exquisite part memoir, part historical non-fiction, and is out now.

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Nilima Rao: on exploring her cultural identity through fiction

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 00:29:12 GMT

Nilima Rao talks to Cheryl Akle about her Indo-Fijian heritage and how cultural identity influenced her debut novel, A Disappearance in Fiji, which is out now.

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BE Better: Sandra Radice on Our Green Change: A Journey to Green School, Bali & Beyond

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 18:00:50 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Sandra Radice talks to Jane Tara about moving her family to Bali to join the Green School community. Her memoir, Our Green Change: A Journey to Green School, Bali & Beyond is out now.

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Antony Loewenstein: on writing The Palestine Laboratory

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:00:17 GMT

Antony Loewenstein talks to Cheryl Akle about his investigation into Israel’s occupation-enforcing technologies for his book, The Palestine Laboratory, which is out now.

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Lisa Barr: on her transition from journalist to writer

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 01:11:26 GMT

Lisa Barr talks to Cheryl Akle about The Unbreakables, journalism, and how her experience busting a sex-trafficking ring at seventeen inspired Woman on Fire. Both books are out now.

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BE Better: Helen Jacobs on how to Follow Your Heart

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 00:44:08 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Author and psychic, Helen Jacobs talks to Jane Tara about manifesting, intuition and her latest book, Follow Your Heart.

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Josephine Moon: on her inspiring journey to publication

Mon, 29 May 2023 04:07:06 GMT

Josephine Moon talks to Cheryl Akle about being rejected over 100 times before being published, and her commitment to writing positive, uplifting novels. Her latest novel, The Wonderful Thing About Phoenix Rose, is out now.

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Stuart Black: on the abuse of corporate power

Thu, 25 May 2023 01:33:11 GMT

Stuart Black talks to Cheryl Akle about his experience in the corporate world and exploring the abuse of power in his latest novel, The Signatory, which is out now.

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Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #5

Tue, 23 May 2023 23:16:32 GMT

Welcome to episode #5 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington. Cheryl and Caroline love nothing more than talking about books, so we figured we’d share that with you. They discuss book and industry news, authors… and maybe even a little gossip.

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BE Better: Wim Hof on The Wim Hof Method

Mon, 22 May 2023 22:55:35 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Iconic iceman Wim Hof enthusiastically chats to Jane Tara about his ground-breaking work, the research on cold immersion therapy, and his book,The Wim Hof Method

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Jennifer Saint: on redefining Greek mythology

Mon, 22 May 2023 01:54:27 GMT

Jennifer Saint talks to Cheryl Akle about redefining Greek mythological characters and giving ancient women a voice. Her latest book, Atalanta, is out now.

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Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #4

Wed, 17 May 2023 18:00:58 GMT

Welcome to episode #4 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington. Cheryl and Caroline love nothing more than talking about books, so we figured we’d share that with you. They discuss book and industry news, authors… and maybe even a little gossip.

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Tim Winton: on his body of work and ABC nature series, Ningaloo Nyinggulu

Tue, 16 May 2023 04:22:29 GMT

Tim Winton talks to Cheryl Akle about his body of work, including Ningaloo Nyinggulu, the ABC nature series, and being chosen as the recipient of the 2023 Lloyd O'Neill Award.

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Markus Zusak: on how The Book Thief changed his life

Mon, 15 May 2023 01:31:46 GMT

Markus Zusak talks to Cheryl Akle about his bestselling writing career and how The Book Thief changed his life. The Book Thief placed at #5 on Better Reading's 2023 Top 100 list.

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BE Better: Caitlin Cady on The Hope Dealer

Thu, 11 May 2023 18:00:42 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s new Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Author and meditation teacher, Caitlin Cady talks to Jane Tara about inspiration, mindfulness, ritual, and her latest book, The Hope Dealer.

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Armando Lucas Correa: on the rise of translated fiction

Thu, 11 May 2023 01:30:59 GMT

Armando Lucas Correa talks to Cheryl Akle about the rise of translated fiction and how technology and social media are shaping modern publishing. His latest book, The Night Travelers, is out now.

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Candice Fox: on the success of her novels

Mon, 08 May 2023 02:29:39 GMT

Candice Fox talks to Cheryl Akle about co-writing, championing Australian authors and the success of her novels. Her latest book, Fire With Fire, is out now.

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BE Better: Gretchen Rubin on living Life in Five Senses

Thu, 04 May 2023 18:00:14 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s new Self-Development & Wellness podcast – New York Times bestselling author Gretchen Rubin talks to Jane Tara about living Life in Five Senses.

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Loraine Peck: on criminal ex-husbands and writing courses

Thu, 04 May 2023 02:22:10 GMT

Loraine Peck talks to Cheryl Akle about how creative writing courses, personal hardships and crime-related relationships inspired her writing career. Her latest book, The Double Bind, is out now.

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Brad Walls: on capturing the beauty of pools

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 18:00:42 GMT

Brad Walls talks to Cheryl Akle about their shared love of pools and why he decided to photograph them. His coffee table book, Pools From Above, is out now.

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BE Better: Dr Ahona Guha on complex trauma

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 18:00:41 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s new Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Dr Ahona Guha talks to Jane Tara about complex trauma, and her ground-breaking book on the subject, Reclaim.

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Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #3

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 04:38:26 GMT

Welcome to episode #3 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington. Cheryl and Caroline love nothing more than talking about books, so we figured we’d share that with you. Once a month, they’ll discuss book and industry news, authors… and maybe even a little gossip.

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Samantha Shannon: on the intricacies of modern fantasy

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 03:39:02 GMT

Samantha Shannon talks to Cheryl Akle about the modern fantasy landscape and what makes adult fantasy different from YA. Her latest book, A Day of Fallen Night, is out now.

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BE Better: Kath Koschel on Kindness

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 18:00:02 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s new Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Founder of the Kindness Factory, Kath Koschel talks to Jane Tara about her book, Kindness, which is out now.

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Nicci French: on balancing writing as husband and wife

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 02:39:38 GMT

Writing duo Sean French and Nicci Gerard, known as Nicci French, talk to Cheryl Akle about how they balance writing as a husband and wife. Their latest novel, The Favour, is out now.

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Rae Cairns: on the dangerous research process for her novel

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 02:56:12 GMT

Rae Cairns talks to Cheryl Akle about her intense research process, including interviewing bikies and shadowing police officers. Her latest novel, Dying to Know, is out now.

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BE Better: Georgie Collinson on The Anxiety Reset Method

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 18:00:06 GMT

BE Better: Better Reading’s new Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Anxiety Mindset coach, Georgie Collinson speaks to Jane Tara about her book, The Anxiety Reset Method, which is a 12-week program for those with high functioning anxiety.

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Sally Colin-James: on the plane crash that changed her life

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 02:56:35 GMT

Sally Colin-James talks to Cheryl Akle about the plane crash that changed her life and her research process for her novel One Illumined Thread, which is out now.

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Margaret Simons: on the process of writing a biography

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 23:08:03 GMT

Margaret Simons talks to Cheryl Akle about what goes into writing a biography, researching her subjects, and the life of Tanya Plibersek. Her latest book, Tanya Plibersek: On Her Own Terms, is out now.

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Pip Williams: on expanding the world of A Dictionary of Lost Words

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 18:00:53 GMT

Pip Williams talks to Cheryl Akle about the bestselling success of A Dictionary of Lost Words and the challenges of writing its companion novel, The Bookbinder of Jericho, which is out now.

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Toni Jordan: on the popularity of women's fiction

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 01:39:45 GMT

Toni Jordan talks to Cheryl Akle about why she's drawn to women's fiction and the popularity of the genre. Her latest novel, Prettier if She Smiled More, is out now.

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Louise Candlish: on the evolution of her writing

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 00:06:54 GMT

Louise Candlish talks to Cheryl Akle about the evolution of her writing, and exploring darker themes in her novels. Her latest, The Only Suspect, is out now.

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Alexandra Collier: on navigating motherhood alone

Sun, 26 Mar 2023 17:00:17 GMT

Alexandra Collier talks to Cheryl Akle about her decision to have a child on her own terms and how she navigates motherhood alone. Her memoir, Inconceivable, is out now.

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Ali Lowe: on shifting from journalism to writing fiction

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 23:28:22 GMT

Ali Lowe talks to Cheryl Akle about journalism, publication and how Jacqueline Moriarty inspired her to write fiction. Her latest book, The Running Club, is out now.

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Jackie French: on the similarities between adults and children's fiction

Sun, 19 Mar 2023 17:00:59 GMT

Jackie French talks to Cheryl Akle about her love for Australian history and the similarities between writing adult and children's fiction. Her latest book, Becoming Mrs Mulberry, is out now.

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Charlene Carr: on IVF, motherhood and identity

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 17:00:22 GMT

Charlene Carr talks to Cheryl Akle about her IVF experience and how it inspired Hold My Girl, her gripping, heart-wrenching novel which is out now.

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Kate Legge: on Infidelity and Other Affairs

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 17:00:37 GMT

Award-winning journalist and author Kate Legge and Cheryl Akle have a candid conversation about infidelity. Kate’s memoir, Infidelity and Other Affairs, is out now.

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Rosemary Kariuki: on advocating for migrant women and refugees

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 22:49:38 GMT

2021 Australian of the Year – Local Hero Award winner Rosemary Kariuki talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey from Kenya to Australia, and her inspiring advocacy for migrant women and refugees. Her memoir, A Joyful Life, is out now.

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Cassandra Austin: on moving from writing to ceramics

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 17:00:13 GMT

Cassandra Austin, the author of Like Mother, talks to Cheryl Akle about finding the magic in different creative outlets.

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Bebe Backhouse: on poetry and self-discovery

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 23:49:17 GMT

Bebe Backhouse talks to Cheryl Akle about how writing his poetry collection, More Than These Bones was a journey of self-discovery.

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Emilia Hart: on the Pendle Witch Trials

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 17:00:31 GMT

Emilia Hart talks to Cheryl Akle about the real-life Witch Trials that inspired her novel, Weyward, a generational story of female resilience and empowerment.

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Mercedes Maguire: on the billion dollar romance fiction industry

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 17:00:51 GMT

Journalist Mercedes Maguire talks to Cheryl Akle about the billion-dollar romance industry and how it's time to break the stigma around reading romance.

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Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #2

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 01:59:40 GMT

Welcome to episode #2 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington. Cheryl and Caroline love nothing more than talking about books, so we figured we’d share that with you. Once a month, they’ll discuss book and industry news, authors… and maybe even a little gossip.

In this episode, they discuss:

- Infidelity and Other Affairs by Kate Legge.

- Caroline Overington’s Audible book, Looking for Eden.

- Journalist Mercedes McGuire’s article on the romance genre.

- Author Rachael Johns.

- Wifedom by Anna Funder, out in July.

- Victory City by Salman Rushdie.

- Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey

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Shannon Molloy: on being a voice for sexual abuse survivors

Sun, 19 Feb 2023 17:00:59 GMT

Shannon Molloy talks to Cheryl Akle about the taboo topic of male child sexual abuse, his own experiences and those he investigated for his latest book. Part memoir, part self-help, part investigative journalism deep-dive, You Made Me This Way is out now.

CONTENT WARNING: This episode discusses child molestation and sexual abuse.

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Penelope Janu: on her passion for writing romance

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 22:46:11 GMT

Penelope Janu talks to Cheryl Akle about the mainstream rise of romantic fiction and how she came into her own as a romance writer. Her latest book, Shelter From the Storm, is out now.

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Olivia Wearne: on the policewomen of 1940s Australia

Sun, 12 Feb 2023 17:00:31 GMT

Olivia Wearne talks to Cheryl Akle about the inspiring policewomen of 1940s Australia and the feminist evolution of the crime genre. Her latest novel, The Woman Who Knew Too Little, is out now.

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Nikki Mottram: on how working as a child protection officer inspired her debut novel

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 17:00:50 GMT

Nikki Mottram talks to Cheryl Akle about how her career as a child protection officer influenced her debut crime novel, Crows Nest, which is out now.

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Book Chat: with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington – episode #1

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 02:43:05 GMT

Welcome to episode #1 of Book Chat with Cheryl Akle and Caroline Overington. This month, they discuss the National Cultural Policy, the Vogel prize, Hannah Richell, the success of Spare, and much more.

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Bonnie Garmus: on 98 rejections and her bestselling debut

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 17:00:10 GMT

Everyone is talking about Lessons in Chemistry, so we thought we'd reshare our wonderful Bonnie Garmus interview. Here she tells Cheryl Akle about how she received 98 rejections, before finally being published.

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Peter Doyle: on the crimes that shaped Sydney

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 00:01:15 GMT

Peter Doyle talks to Cheryl Akle about Sydney's major crimes in the 1950s and how they shaped the city we know today. His latest book, Suburban Noir, is out now.

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Rebecca Heath: on exploring class and grief in The Summer Party

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 17:00:09 GMT

Rebecca Heath talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey transitioning from writing YA to crime, and how she explores grief and class in her latest novel, The Summer Party.

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Ellidy Pullin: on deciding to have her late husband's child

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 17:00:39 GMT

Ellidy Pullin talks to Cheryl Akle about deciding to have her late husband's child and keeping his legacy alive. Her memoir, Heartstrong, is out now.

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Pip Drysdale: on how different cities influence her writing

Sun, 22 Jan 2023 17:00:00 GMT

Pip Drysdale talks to Cheryl Akle about identity, self-discovery and how her writing is shaped by the different cities she's lived in. Her latest novel, The Next Girl, is out now.

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What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Rachael Johns

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 17:00:34 GMT

Bestselling author Rachael Johns talks to Cheryl Akle about what she’s reading. Rachael’s latest book, The Work Wives, is out now.

Books discussed (NB: Some titles might not be published yet)

The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams

Us Against Them by Fredrik Backman

The Most Likely Club by Elyssa Friedland

The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller

Bridget Jones Diary by Helen Fielding

The Hemsworth Effect by James Weir

Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld.

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Tom Keneally: on the life and exploits of Irish patriot John Mitchel

Sun, 15 Jan 2023 17:00:54 GMT

Tom Keneally talks to Cheryl Akle about writing forgotten people back into history and the life and exploits of Irish patriot John Mitchel. His latest book, Fanatic Heart, is out now.

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What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Chris Flynn

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 17:00:59 GMT

Chris Flynn talks to Cheryl Akle about what he’s reading. Chris’s latest book, Here Be Leviathans, is out now.

Books discussed (NB: Some titles might not be published yet)

She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan

Liberation Day by George Saunders

The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert

Days Without End by Sebastian Barry

I am Legend by Richard Matheson

Edenglassie by Melissa Lucashenko

Gunflower by Laura Jean McKay

The Bookbinder of Jericho by Pip Williams

Return to Valetto by Dominic Smith

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What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Michael Moseley

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 17:00:22 GMT

Internationally bestselling author and science presenter, Dr Michael Mosley talks to Cheryl Akle about what he’s reading. Michael’s latest book, Just One Thing, is out now.

Books discussed (NB: Some titles might not be published yet)

The Salt Path by Raynor Winn

Down and Out in Paris and London by George Orwell

Three Men in a Boat by Jerome K Jerome

An Open Swimmer by Tim Winton

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Nat's What I Reckon: on how cooking changed his life

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 17:00:41 GMT

Nat's What I Reckon talks to Cheryl Akle about how food can tell a story. His latest book, Life: What Nat to Do, is out now.

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Michelle Johnston: on finding stories in everyday situations

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 17:00:34 GMT

Michelle Johnston talks to Cheryl Akle about finding stories in everyday situations and exploring why we believe what we believe in her latest book, Tiny Uncertain Miracles.

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What Are You Reading? Summer Edition: Caroline Overington

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 17:00:26 GMT

Bestselling author and Literary Editor at The Australian, Caroline Overington talks to Cheryl Akle about the book industry, Tik Tok titles, and what she’s reading. You can follow Caroline on Instagram.

Exiles by Jane Harper

RecipeTin Easts Dinner by Nagi Maehashi

Barefoot Kids by Scott Pape

Faith, Hope and Carnage by Nick Cave and Sean O’Hagan

The Disappearance of Josef Mengele by Olivier Guez

Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir by Matthew Perry

Also mentioned John Irving, Colleen Hoover and Sarah Winman

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Roger Simpson: on adaptation, television and why he's drawn to crime

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 17:00:40 GMT

Roger Simpson talks to Cheryl Akle about writing for television. His latest book, Halifax: Transgression, is out now.

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Fiona Palmer: on the town that inspired The Wrong Sister

Sun, 25 Dec 2022 17:00:41 GMT

Fiona Palmer talks to Cheryl Akle about how technology has changed rural writing, and the country town that inspired her latest novel, The Wrong Sister.

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Behrouz Boochani: on his 6 years on Manus Island

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 22:59:49 GMT

Behrouz Boochani talks to Cheryl Akle about his time on Manus Island Detention Centre and why Australia needs to change. His latest book, Freedom, Only Freedom, is out now.

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Nikki Crutchley: on why psychological thrillers need a killer setting

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 03:29:45 GMT

Nikki Crutchley talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience with self-publishing and the haunted hotel that inspired her latest book, In Her Blood.

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Sami Bayly: on her love of the natural world

Sun, 18 Dec 2022 17:00:47 GMT

Sami Bayly talks to Cheryl Akle about her love of nature and how she became a natural history author-illustrator. Her latest book, How We Came to Be: Surprising Sea Creatures, is out now.

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Christine Courtenay: on the life and legacy of Bryce Courtenay

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 17:00:39 GMT

Christine Courtenay talks to Cheryl Akle about her husband's legacy and why she decided to write his memoir, Bryce Courtenay: Storyteller, which is out now.

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Sally Thorne: on what the rise of BookTok means for authors

Sun, 11 Dec 2022 17:00:57 GMT

Sally Thorne talks to Cheryl Akle about the rise of BookTok and what it means for the future of authors. Her latest book, Angelika Frankenstein Makes Her Match, is out now.

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Sean Wilson: on transitioning from playwright to author

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 17:00:01 GMT

Sean Wilson talks to Cheryl Akle about transitioning from a playwright to an author, and what drew him to write about Melbourne's Great Depression in Gemini Falls, his debut fiction novel.

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Judy Nunn: on writing short stories

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 23:24:31 GMT

Judy Nunn talks to Cheryl Akle about the challenges of writing short stories and how it differs from longer-form fiction. Her first collection of short stories, The Long Weekend, is out now.

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Belinda Alexandra: on blending historical fact with fiction

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 02:16:48 GMT

Belinda Alexandra talks to Cheryl Akle about her deep love of history and what historical fiction can teach us. Her latest book, The French Agent, is out now.

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Amaryllis Gacioppo: on identity, belonging and finding a home

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 17:00:55 GMT

Amaryllis Gacioppo talks to Cheryl Akle about the places we call home and how it affects our identity. Her latest book, Motherlands, is out now.

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Janet Evanovich: on writing Stephanie Plum

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 23:23:06 GMT

New York Times bestselling author Janet Evanovich talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey from fine art to writing and her relationship with her protagonists. Her latest novel, Going Rogue, is out now.

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Paddy Manning: on the high-stakes life of Lachlan Murdoch

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 17:00:22 GMT

Paddy Manning talks to Cheryl Akle about his research into Lachlan Murdoch, the man and the empire. The Successor, is out now.

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Kathy Reichs: on writing Temperance Brennan

Sun, 27 Nov 2022 17:00:04 GMT

Kathy Reichs talks to Cheryl Akle about how she is continually developing Temperance Brennan. The latest novel in her bestselling series, Cold, Cold Bones, is out now.

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Sloane Crosley: on satirising modern dating

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 00:19:11 GMT

New York Times bestselling author Sloane Crosley talks to Cheryl Akle about the social expectations of being single and how her novel, Cult Classic, offers a satirical look at modern dating.

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Natasha Lester: on fashion, France and historical fiction

Sun, 20 Nov 2022 23:58:13 GMT

Bestselling author Natasha Lester talks to Cheryl Akle about her love of France and fashion, and how she combines these two loves in her latest historical novel, The Three Lives of Alix St Pierre, which is out now.

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Dominique Roques: on his worldwide search for perfumes

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 17:00:38 GMT

Dominique Roques talks to Cheryl Akle about his search for the best perfume ingredients across the globe, and how this inspired his memoir, In Search of Perfumes, which is out now.

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Kayte Nunn: on the haunting crime that inspired The Only Child

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 00:11:35 GMT

Kayte Nunn talks to Cheryl Akle about writing historical fiction and the haunting crime that inspired her latest novel, The Only Child.

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Philippa Gregory: on writing women back into history

Sun, 13 Nov 2022 23:43:59 GMT

Bestselling author Philippa Gregory talks to Cheryl Akle about the women who were written out of history, and how fiction helps them reclaim their voices. Dawnlands, the third instalment in her Fairmile series, is out now.

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Victoria Hannan: on the ripple effects of grief

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 17:00:44 GMT

Victoria Hannan talks to Cheryl Akle about female friendship and the ripple effects of grief. Her latest book, Marshmallow, is out now.

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Booker Prize-winning author George Saunders: on his first short story collection in 10 years

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 00:38:43 GMT

One of Cheryl's all-time favourite guests, Booker Prize-winning author George Saunders, returns to discuss his first short story collection in 10 years, democracy, and how literature challenges a reader's point of view.

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Tea Cooper: on butterflies, teaching and historical fiction

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 01:00:32 GMT

Tea Cooper talks to Cheryl Akle about her background as a teacher, researching butterflies and writing historical fiction. Her latest novel, The Butterfly Collector, is out now.

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Melissa Doyle: on learning to be brave

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 17:00:24 GMT

Melissa Doyle talks to Cheryl Akle about learning to be brave and finding hope in the stories of survivors. Her book, Fifteen Seconds of Brave, is out now.

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Craig Silvey: on exploring the bonds between dogs and humans

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 17:00:15 GMT

Bestselling author Craig Silvey talks to Cheryl Akle about the bond between dogs and humans, and what they can teach us about life. His latest novel, Runt, is out now.

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Reece Carter: on exploring darker themes in gothic children's fiction

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 00:05:04 GMT

Reece Carter talks to Cheryl Akle about writing his debut novel and exploring darker themes in gothic children's fiction. His book, A Girl Called Corpse, is out now.

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Kate McCaffrey: on gender, identity and adult fiction

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 23:17:40 GMT

Kate McCaffrey talks to Cheryl Akle about exploring gender identity in her latest novel, Double Lives, and why she moved from YA to adult fiction.

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Sarah Schmidt: on parenthood and generational trauma

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 17:00:10 GMT

Award-winning author Sarah Schmidt talks to Cheryl Akle about mother-daughter relationships and generational trauma. Her latest book, Blue Hour, is out now.

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Julietta Henderson: on exploring sibling relationships in her writing

Sun, 16 Oct 2022 17:00:57 GMT

Julietta Henderson talks to Cheryl Akle about exploring the complexities of sibling relationships in her second novel, Sincerely, Me.

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Anna Kent: on working as a midwife in developing countries

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 17:00:06 GMT

Anna Kent talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience working as a midwife in some of the most vulnerable places on the planet, and how it changed her perspective on healthcare. Her memoir, Frontline Midwife, is out now.

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Tracey Lien: on journalism, identity, and growing up in Cabramatta

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 17:00:22 GMT

Tracey Lien talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience growing up in Cabramatta and challenging the myth of the model minority. Her debut book, All That's Left Unsaid, is out now.

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Aaron Fa'Aoso: on being Torres Strait Islander and representation in the media

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 23:08:42 GMT

Aaron Fa'Aoso talks to Cheryl Akle about football, representation of First Nations people in the media and what it means to be a Torres Strait Islander. His memoir, So Far, So Good, is out now.

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Susan White: on systematic misogyny in the hospital system

Sun, 02 Oct 2022 17:00:20 GMT

Susan White talks to Cheryl Akle about systematic misogyny and sexism in the hospital system, and her experiences working as a female doctor for more than two decades. Her latest novel, Cut, is out now.

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Antoinette Lattouf: on starting conversations about diversity

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 18:00:23 GMT

Antoinette Lattouf talks to Cheryl Akle about championing change and racial equality, and why diversity is so important. Her latest book, How to Lose Friends and Influence White People, is out now.

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Zoulfa Katouh: on giving a voice to young Syrian women

Sun, 25 Sep 2022 18:00:06 GMT

Zoulfa Katouh talks to Cheryl Akle about embracing her identity and how she used her novel, As Long As the Lemon Trees Grow, to shine a light on the conflict in Syria.

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Andy McNab: on his career from SAS soldier to bestselling author

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 18:00:36 GMT

Former SAS soldier and bestselling author Andy McNab talks to Cheryl Akle about his military service and how it ultimately lead to writing children's fiction. His latest book, My Mum is a Spy! is out now.

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Clare Fletcher: on rural weddings bringing communities together

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 03:56:52 GMT

Clare Fletcher talks to Cheryl Akle about bush weddings and how they bring rural communities together. Her latest novel, Five Bush Wedding, is out now.

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Nigel Marsh: on being Smart, Stupid & Sixty

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 03:01:46 GMT

Nigel Marsh talks to Cheryl Akle about going from Fat, Forty & Fired to now being Smart, Stupid and Sixty. His latest memoir is out now.

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J.M. Miro: on escapism in fantasy fiction

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 04:48:47 GMT

J.M. Miro talks to Cheryl Akle about the power of escapism in fantasy fiction. His book, Ordinary Monsters, the first instalment in a thrilling new adult fantasy series set in Victorian England, is out now.

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Claire G. Coleman: on the connection between culture and writing

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 18:00:16 GMT

Clare G. Coleman talks to Cheryl Akle about the connection between culture and writing, and her return to her ancestral country. Her latest novel, Enclave, is out now.

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Emma Harcourt: on writing women back into history

Sun, 04 Sep 2022 18:00:56 GMT

Emma Harcourt talks to Cheryl Akle about how women are often written out of history, and how fiction allows us to finally give them a voice. Her latest book, The Brightest Star, is out now.

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Denis Knight and Cristy Burne: on co-writing Wednesday Weeks

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 18:00:54 GMT

Children's authors Denis Knight and Cristy Burne talk to Cheryl Akle about the challenges and perks of co-writing a novel. The final book in their bestselling series, Wednesday Weeks and the Dungeon of Fire, is out now.

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Larry Emdur: on being Happy As

Sun, 28 Aug 2022 18:00:53 GMT

Australian TV personality Larry Emdur talks to Cheryl Akle about his career on television, growing up in Bondi and how it shaped the person he is today. His memoir, Happy As, is out now.

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Lisa Barr: on using fiction to give voice to women

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 18:00:50 GMT

New York Times bestselling author Lisa Barr talks to Cheryl Akle about her time as a journalist in Jerusalem and the rise of women's voices in fiction. Her novel, Woman on Fire, is out now.

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Margaret Hickey: on the rise of Australian rural crime fiction

Sun, 21 Aug 2022 18:00:51 GMT

Bestselling author Margaret Hickey talks to Cheryl Akle about the rise of rural crime fiction and how the Australian landscape inspires her writing. Her latest novel, Stone Town, is out now.

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Julie Fison: on alcohol-fuelled violence and coward punches

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 18:00:34 GMT

Julie Fison talks to Cheryl Akle about the coward punch incident that inspired her novel, and the detrimental effects of alcohol-fueled street violence. Her novel, One Punch, is out now.

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Richard McHugh: on his career from barrister to writer

Sun, 14 Aug 2022 18:00:04 GMT

Richard McHugh talks to Cheryl Akle about his career as a barrister and how it influenced his writing.

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Ruth Ozeki: on winning the 2022 Women's Prize for Fiction

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 18:00:08 GMT

Ruth Ozeki talks to Cheryl Akle about winning the 2022 Women's Prize for Fiction, and how certain books find us at the right time. Her latest novel, The Book of Form and Emptiness is available now.

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Matthew Spencer: on using his unusual childhood home in his debut novel

Sun, 07 Aug 2022 18:00:39 GMT

Matthew Spencer talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up on the grounds of a private school, and how he used this experience as inspiration for his crime debut Black River.

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Helen Thomas: on Melbourne's most notorious cold case

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 23:49:27 GMT

Helen Thomas talks to Cheryl Akle about the fateful phone call that brought them together, and how it helped fill in the gaps of Melbourne's most notorious cold case. The updated edition of her book, Murder on Easey Street, is out now.

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Tim Winton: on 40 years of storytelling

Sun, 31 Jul 2022 18:00:55 GMT

Four-time Miles Franklin award-winner Tim Winton talks to Cheryl Akle about his 40 years of writing, and how stories help us understand the world.

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Brendan Colley: on writing as a solace

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 00:26:11 GMT

Brendan Colley talks to Cheryl Akle about feeling disconnected from South Africa, and how writing has become a solace. His debut novel, The Signal Line, is out now.

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Indira Naidoo: on using writing to explore grief

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 03:12:28 GMT

Award-winning journalist and author Indira Naidoo talks to Cheryl Akle about losing her sister, and how she used writing to explore grief. Her book, The Space Between the Stars, is out now.

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Helen Fitzgerald: on social work and writing

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 18:00:12 GMT

Helen Fitzgerald talks to Cheryl Akle about her time as a social worker and how it has influenced her writing. Her latest book, Keep Her Sweet, is out now.

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Geraldine Brooks: In conversation with the Pulitzer Prize winner

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 18:00:37 GMT

Geraldine Brooks talks to Cheryl Akle about her career, and how the Pulitzer Prize changed her life. Her latest novel, Horse, is out now.

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Nicole Haddow: on ethically growing your wealth

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 01:03:17 GMT

Journalist and author Nicole Haddow talks to Cheryl Akle about how we can invest ethically. Her book, The Ethical Investor, is out now.

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Mykaela Saunders: on First Nations speculative fiction

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 02:01:06 GMT

Mykaela Saunders on editing the first-ever anthology of First Nations speculative fiction. This All Come Back Now is out now.

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David Knoff: on surviving 537 days stranded in Antarctica

Sun, 17 Jul 2022 18:00:10 GMT

David Knoff talks to Cheryl Akle about his experience of surviving 537 days stranded in Antarctica during the pandemic. His book, 537 Days of Winter, is out now.

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Luke Mathers: on changing curious habits

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 00:42:55 GMT

Luke Mathers talks to Cheryl Akle about the habits we form and why we struggle to change them. His latest book, Curious Habits, is out now.

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Michael Robotham: on the golden age of Australian crime fiction

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 00:42:16 GMT

Bestselling author Michael Robotham talks to Cheryl Akle about the resurgence in Australian crime fiction, and how he creates authentic characters. His latest novel, Lying Beside You, is out now.

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Melissa Fu: on the importance of place and identity in Fiction

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 18:00:59 GMT

Melissa Fu talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of identity and place, and how she adapted her novel Peach Blossom Spring from a short story she wrote about her father.

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Diane Armstrong: on her experience as a child holocaust survivor

Sun, 03 Jul 2022 18:00:00 GMT

Diane Armstrong talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience as a child holocaust survivor and how her family escaped to Australia. Her latest novel, Dancing with the Enemy, is out now.

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Caroline Petit: on giving women a voice in historical fiction

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 18:00:06 GMT

Caroline Petit talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey from the US to Australia, and how the forgotten wife of a 19th-century naturalist inspired her novel, The Natural History of Love.

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Robbi Neal: on cancer, family and overcoming hardship

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 01:39:22 GMT

Robbi Neal talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience with cancer, and how her latest novel, The Secret World of Connie Starr, was influenced by her family.

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Carrie Cox: on marriage, love and loss

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 00:17:54 GMT

Journalist and author Carrie Cox talks to Cheryl Akle about how she uses fiction as a vessel to explore marriage and long term relationships. Her latest novel, So Many Beats of the Heart, is out now.

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Annabel Abbs: on why we need more food in fiction

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 18:00:20 GMT

Annabel Abbs talks to Cheryl Akle about their shared love of cookbooks and why there needs to be more food in fiction. Her latest novel, The Language of Food, is out now.

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Catherine Deveny: on honesty, dyslexia and being an ‘arts tradie’

Sun, 19 Jun 2022 18:00:07 GMT

Catherine Deveny talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up with dyslexia, being an ‘arts tradie’, and how honesty is easy. Her memoir, True North, is out now.

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Averil Kenny: on her deep connection to rural life

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 00:28:08 GMT

Averil Kenny talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up in rural Australia and how this bleeds into her writing. Her latest novel, The Girls of Lake Evelyn, is out now.

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Stella Rimington: on her experience as Director General of MI5

Sun, 12 Jun 2022 18:00:33 GMT

Bestselling author Stella Rimington DCB talks to Cheryl Akle about her experience as Director General of the MI5 and how this translates into her writing. Her latest thriller, The Devil's Bargain, is out now.

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Brigid Kemmerer: on the fantasy genre boom

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 18:00:51 GMT

New York Times bestselling author Brigid Kemmerer talks to Cheryl Akle about the rise of the fantasy genre, and why we're seeking escapism more and more. Her latest book, Forging Silver into Stars, is out now.

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Liane Moriarty: on bestselling novels and award-winning TV shows

Sun, 05 Jun 2022 18:00:01 GMT

Liane Moriarty talks to Cheryl Akle about her astonishing success as a New York Times bestselling author with an award-winning TV adaptation. Her latest book, Apples Never Fall, is out now.

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Judy Cotton: on Art, New York and the constant longing for home

Mon, 30 May 2022 04:52:34 GMT

Artist Judy Cotton talks to Cheryl Akle about art, Tokyo and New York, and how she deals with the constant longing for Australia. Her memoir, Swimming Home, is out now.

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Jon Faine: on the Mighty Apollo and Thelma Hawkes

Sun, 29 May 2022 18:00:30 GMT

Journalist and broadcaster Jon Faine talks to Cheryl Akle about the legendary siblings Apollo and Thelma and his relationship to them both.

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Alix Bradfield: on growing older, well

Wed, 25 May 2022 18:00:55 GMT

Alix Bradfield's parents were once, officially, the oldest couple in Australia. Here she talks to Cheryl Akle about her research into growing older and her book, Energy for Life.

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Damon Galgut: on exploring the complexities of South Africa in his writing

Fri, 20 May 2022 04:28:40 GMT

Booker Prize-winning author Damon Galgut talks to Cheryl Akle about the complexities of South Africa, and how death can bring a family together. His novel, The Promise, is out now. Damon is currently at the Sydney Writers' Festival.

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Kylie Moore-Gilbert: on how she survived 804 days in an Iranian Prison

Thu, 19 May 2022 02:22:10 GMT

Kylie Moore-Gilbert talks to Cheryl Akle about how she survived 804 days in an Iranian prison and her journey back home. Her memoir, The Uncaged Sky, is out now. Kylie is currently at the Sydney Writers' Festival.

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Chloe Hooper: on the power of bedtime stories

Wed, 18 May 2022 03:17:44 GMT

Chloe Hooper talks to Cheryl Akle about reading the right book at the right time, and how she used the stories to explore grief and loss in her memoir, Bedtime Story. Chloe is currently at the Sydney Writers' Festival.

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Sheila O'Flanagan: on loss, grief, and accepting change

Sun, 15 May 2022 18:00:34 GMT

Bestselling author Sheila O'Flanagan talks to Cheryl Akle about how reading can help us process grief, and why change is so important. Her latest novel, What Eden Did Next, is out now.

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Shelley Burr: on her award-winning crime debut WAKE

Wed, 11 May 2022 18:00:39 GMT

Shelley Burr talks to Cheryl Akle about the success of her debut novel WAKE, which won the CWA Debut Dagger Award.

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Lauren Chater: on the gown that inspired The Winter Dress

Sun, 08 May 2022 18:00:52 GMT

Bestselling author Lauren Chater talks to Cheryl Akle about the 17th-century gown that inspired her latest historical novel, The Winter Dress.

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Better Reading Book Chat: Who made the 2022 Top 100?

Wed, 04 May 2022 18:00:27 GMT

Better Reading’s Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their old... and new favourites from this year's Top 100.

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Better Reading Top 100: Craig Silvey: on the books that shaped his childhood

Mon, 02 May 2022 18:00:01 GMT

The #1 spot on the Better Reading 2022 Top 100 goes to Honeybee by Craig Silvey. To celebrate, we're rereleasing this wonderful conversation Craig had with Cheryl Akle, about writing his modern classic, Jasper Jones, and the books that shaped his childhood and still influence his writing today.

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Beth O'Leary: on why she loves writing romance

Sun, 01 May 2022 18:00:42 GMT

Beth O'Leary, the Sunday Times bestselling author of The Flat Share and The Road Trip, talks to Cheryl Akle about why she loves writing romance. Her latest novel, The No-Show, is out now.

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Eliza Hull: on breaking the stigma around disability

Sun, 24 Apr 2022 18:00:37 GMT

Musician, journalist and writer Eliza Hull talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey to motherhood, and her experiences living with a disability. Her book We've Got This, the first major anthology of stories written by parents with disabilities, is out now.

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Emma A. Jane: on breaking the silence surrounding sexual abuse and mental illness

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 18:00:25 GMT

Associate Professor Emma A. Jane talks to Cheryl Akle about trauma, and why we need to break the silence surrounding sexual abuse and mental illness. Her memoir, Diagnosis Normal, is out now.

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Toni Jordan: on science, writing, and Barbie dolls

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 18:00:30 GMT

Bestselling author Toni Jordan talks to Cheryl Akle about her love of science, and how her passion for storytelling started from Barbie Dolls. Her latest novel, Dinner with the Schnabels, is out now.

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Emma Viskic: on writing a deaf detective

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 18:00:44 GMT

Emma Viskic talks to Cheryl Akle about the challenges of writing a deaf Private Investigator in her award-winning Caleb Zelic series. The latest instalment in the series, Those Who Perish, is out now.

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Steve Toltz: on why fear is a big part of his writing

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 18:00:18 GMT

Booker-shortlisted author Steve Toltz talks to Cheryl Akle about why fear is a big part of his writing, and how he comes up with the ideas for his novels. His latest book, Here Goes Nothing, is out in May.

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Julie Bennett: on how her love of opera influenced her writing

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 18:00:19 GMT

Julie Bennett talks to Cheryl Akle about the glitz and glamour of the Sydney opera scene, and how her family's history in the industry inspired her debut novel The Understudy.

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Sarah Di Lorenzo: on her passion for overhauling the health of her clients

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 17:00:00 GMT

Nutritionist, Sarah Di Lorenzo talks to Cheryl Akle about her passion for health, wellness and how it’s possible to permanently lose 10 kilos in 10 weeks. Her book, The 10:10 Diet, is out now.

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Kate Thompson: on the importance of libraries and storytelling

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 17:00:07 GMT

Sunday Times bestselling author Kate Thompson talks to Cheryl Akle about the power of storytelling and the incredible true story of Bethnal Green Library during World War II. Her latest novel, The Little Wartime Library, is out now.

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Jonathan Butler: on the unsolved murder of Warwick Meale

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 17:00:05 GMT

Jonathan Butler talks to Cheryl Akle about the unsolved murder of his ancestor Warwick Meale in 1944. In his new book, The Boy in the Dress, Butler dusts off the case and chases the leads that were there all along.

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Karin Tanabe: on how she's always been a storyteller

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 17:00:52 GMT

Karin Tanabe on her career in journalism and how she's always been a storyteller. Her novel, The Gilded Years, is out now and is soon to be adapted for film by Reese Witherspoon.

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V. E. Schwab: on fantasy and escapism

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 17:00:13 GMT

New York Times bestselling author V.E. Schwab talks to Cheryl Akle about writing fantasy fiction, and how it provides an escape for readers. Her latest book, Gallant, is out now.

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Jamar J. Perry: on writing diverse characters in children's books

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 17:00:19 GMT

Jamar J. Perry talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of creating diverse characters in his debut children's novel, Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms.

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Robert Gold: on publishing, crime fiction and working with James Patterson

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 17:00:37 GMT

Robert Gold talks to Cheryl Akle about his experience working as a sales director for a UK publishing company, and how co-writing with James Patterson lead to his debut solo novel Twelve Secrets.

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Joanna Buckley: on dementia and dying with dignity

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 17:00:58 GMT

Joanna Buckley talks to Cheryl Akle about her father and grandfather's experience with Dementia, which inspired her debut novel Lily Harford's Last Request.

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Paul Callaghan: on how Indigenous thinking can change your life

Sun, 27 Feb 2022 17:00:23 GMT

Paul Callaghan talks to Cheryl Akle about the power of Indigenous thinking. His book, The Dreaming Path, examines the power of Aboriginal spirituality as a profound source of contentment and wellbeing for anyone willing to listen.

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Jana Firestone: on why we should embrace change

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 17:00:33 GMT

Therapist, podcaster and author Jana Firestone talks to Cheryl Akle about change, and why it's good for us. Through a blend of professional advice and personal experience, Jana's new book, Embracing Change, offers readers concrete strategies for adapting to change and unlocking potential.

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Dinuka McKenzie: on diversity in crime fiction

Sun, 20 Feb 2022 17:00:42 GMT

Dinuka McKenzie talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of diversity in crime fiction and how winning the HarperCollins Banjo Prize changed her life. Her debut novel, The Torrent, is out now.

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Isabel Allende: on the inspiration for Violeta

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 17:00:14 GMT

Bestselling author and literary icon Isabel Allende sits down with Cheryl Akle in San Francisco to discuss her latest novel, Violeta, a fiercely inspiring and deeply emotional story about one woman's hundred-year life.

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Lizzie Pook: on the dark history behind Australia's pearling industry

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 17:00:42 GMT

Award-winning journalist and author Lizzie Pook talks to Cheryl Akle about researching the dark history behind Australia's pearling industry. Her latest novel, Moonlight and the Pearler's Daughter, is out now.

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S.J. Norman: on the importance of diversity in writing

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 17:00:03 GMT

Award-winning artist and writer S.J. Norman talks to Cheryl Akle about their First Nations identity, and why diversity is so important to them. Their latest book, Permafrost, is out now.

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Nita Prose: on her career as an editor

Sun, 06 Feb 2022 17:00:40 GMT

Nita Prose talks to Cheryl Akle about her job as Vice President and Editorial Director at a Canadian publishing house, and how it has affected her experience as an author. Her novel, The Maid, is out now.

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Imogen Crimp: on opera, feminism and storytelling

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 17:00:37 GMT

Imogen Crimp talks to Cheryl Akle about how she's always been drawn to storytelling, and how feminism has played a role in her writing. Her debut novel, A Very Nice Girl, is out now.

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2021 Highlights: Rick Morton: on complex PTSD and rediscovering love

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 17:00:58 GMT

Over the summer, we've been sharing some highlights of 2021. I hope you enjoy these conversations as much as we did.

Award-winning Journalist and writer Rick Morton talks to Cheryl Akle about quantum physics, journalism, growing up poor, having complex PTSD, and rediscovering love. His latest book, My Year of Living Vulnerably, is out now.

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Ethan Kross: on harnessing the voice in our heads

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 17:00:05 GMT

Award-winning psychologist and author Ethan Kross talks to Cheryl Akle about the voice in our heads and how we can harness it in our everyday lives. His latest book, Chatter, is out now.

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2021 Highlights: Michael Mohammed Ahmad: on being Lebanese-Australian and reclaiming Arab humanity

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 17:00:45 GMT

Over the summer, we've been sharing some highlights of 2021. I hope you enjoy these conversations as much as we did.

Award-winning author Michael Mohammed Ahmad and Cheryl Akle talk about being Lebanese-Australians, their parallel stories, and the normalised compromises migrants make to fit in. This is an important conversation about the lack of humanity Arabs are given and reclaiming that for their children. Ahmad’s latest novel, The Other Half of You, is out now.

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Johann Hari: on why we're losing our ability to focus

Sun, 16 Jan 2022 17:00:05 GMT

Author and journalist Johann Hari talks to Cheryl Akle about why we're losing our ability to focus, and what we can do to fix this. His latest book, Stolen Focus, is out now.

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Miriam Margolyes: on her extraordinary life story

Sun, 09 Jan 2022 17:00:19 GMT

BAFTA award-winning actor Miriam Margolyes, OBE, talks to Cheryl Akle about her life, success and love for Australia. Her memoir, This Much Is True, is out now.

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2021 Highlights: Cathy Kelly: on journalism, perspective, and how her writing has evolved

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 17:00:54 GMT

As we farewell 2021, we’ve put together some of the highlights of the year for you. I hope you enjoy these conversations as much as we did.

Sunday Times bestselling author Cathy Kelly talks to Cheryl Akle about her early career as a journalist, and how her writing has changed over the years. Her latest book, Other Women, is out now.

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Charlotte Wood: on what art and artists teach us

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 17:00:25 GMT

Award-winning author Charlotte Wood talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of art, and what artists can teach us. Her latest book, The Luminous Solution, is out now.

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2021 Highlights: Stan Grant: on western liberalism and the state of the world

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 17:00:09 GMT

As we farewell 2021, we’ve put together some of the highlights of the year for you. I hope you enjoy these conversations as much as we did.

Walkley Award-winning journalist and international commentator Stan Grant talks to Cheryl Akle about universal western liberalism, its virtues and the deep trouble with it, and how we are at a time of momentous upheaval and enormous geopolitical shifts. Stan's latest book, With the Falling of the Dusk, is in stores now.

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2021 Highlights: Monica Dux: on Catholicism and her lapsed faith

Tue, 28 Dec 2021 17:00:41 GMT

As we farewell 2021, we’ve put together some of the highlights of the year for you. I hope you enjoy these conversations as much as we did.

Monica Dux talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up Catholic and how she lost her faith. Her latest book, Lapsed, explores her relationship with Catholicism.

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Fleur McDonald: on writing rural fiction

Sun, 26 Dec 2021 17:00:01 GMT

Bestselling author Fleur McDonald talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up on a farm, and how her writing allows her to connect with her rural background. Her latest book, Deception Creek, is out now.

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Berndt Sellheim: on the power of writing

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 17:00:32 GMT

Writer, poet and photographer Berndt Sellheim talks to Cheryl Akle about his deep love of writing, and why he finds it so impactful. His latest novel, The Fatal Dance, is out now.

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Rebecca Herrmann: on the rise of audiobooks

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 17:00:53 GMT

Bolinda Audio founder Rebecca Herrmann talks to Cheryl Akle about the rise in audiobooks, and why so many people are drawn to audio storytelling. Bolinda is a world-leading audiobook and technology company that brings stories to life. Find them at Bolinda.com

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Inga Simpson: on her treechange and opening a writer's retreat

Sun, 19 Dec 2021 17:00:12 GMT

Inga Simpson talks to Cheryl Akle about how a treechange inspired her writing, and why she opened a writing retreat. Her latest novel, The Last Women in the World, is out now.

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Morris Gleitzman: on ending his popular Once series

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 17:00:38 GMT

Bestselling author Morris Gleitzman talks to Cheryl Akle about the challenges of bringing his award-winning Once series to a close. The seventh and final instalment in the series, Always, is out now and available in audio on Bolinda.

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Ann Patchett: reflecting on her life and career

Sun, 12 Dec 2021 17:00:15 GMT

Award-winning author Ann Patchett talks to Cheryl Akle about why she decided to write an essay collection, and how it helped her reflect on her life. These Precious Days, is out now.

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Dinah Jefferies: on the influence living in Spain had on her writing career

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 17:00:09 GMT

Bestselling author Dinah Jefferies talks to Cheryl Akle about her time living in Spain, and how the GFC sparked her career in writing. Her latest novel, Daughters of War, is out now.

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Christos Tsiolkas: on how his cultural heritage has influenced his writing

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 05:27:53 GMT

Award-winning author Christos Tsiolkas talks to Cheryl Akle about learning to love his cultural heritage, and what that meant for his writing. His latest book, Seven and a Half, is out now.

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Sara Foster: on the lack of maternal figures in dystopian fiction

Sun, 05 Dec 2021 17:00:04 GMT

Sara Foster talks to Cheryl Akle about the lack of positive maternal figures in dystopian fiction. Her latest novel, The Hush, is a near-future dystopian thriller that explores three generations of mother-daughter relationships.

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Van Badham: on QAnon and the rise of conspiracy theorists

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 17:00:49 GMT

Van Badham talks to Cheryl Akle about the rise of QAnon, conspiracy theorists, and what it means for the world today. Her latest book, QAnon and On, is out now.

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Garry Linnell: on one of Australia's most infamous serial killers

Sun, 28 Nov 2021 17:00:04 GMT

Walkley Award-winning journalist Garry Linnell talks to Cheryl Akle about his latest book, The Devil's Work, which explores the life of Frederick Deeming, an Australian serial killer who was a suspect in the Jack The Ripper killings.

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David Hunt: on exploring the crazy history of Australia

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 17:00:29 GMT

David Hunt talks to Cheryl Akle about the fascinating history of Australia, and how he finds the humour in it. His latest book, Girt Nation, is out now and is the third book in the Girt series.

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Lola Berry: on learning from failure

Sun, 21 Nov 2021 17:00:09 GMT

Bestselling author Lola Berry talks to Cheryl Akle about why failing is something she looks forward to. Her new book, Fearlessly Failing, is a companion to her hit podcast of the same name.

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Anita Heiss: on the Aboriginal heroes of the Gundagai flood

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 17:00:45 GMT

Poet, social commentator and bestselling author Anita Heiss talks to Cheryl Akle about her latest book, Bila Yarrudhanggalangdhuray (River of Dreams), which shines a light on the flooding of Gundagai and the Indigenous heroes who saved many lives.

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Julie Kalman: on people smuggling and the criminalisation of refugees

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 17:00:06 GMT

Historian Julie Kalman talks to Cheryl Akle about people smuggling and the criminalisation of refugees in Australia. Her book, Smuggled, provides compelling insight into this defining yet unexplored part of Australia’s history.

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Shane Jenek: on the genesis to Courtney Act

Sun, 14 Nov 2021 17:00:14 GMT

Shane Jenek talks to Cheryl Akle about the genesis to Courtney Act – artist, advocate, and now, author. Shane’s memoir, Caught in the Act, is out now. It's also available via Bolinda Audio with Shane narrating.

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Jessie Burton: on retelling the story of Medusa

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 17:00:16 GMT

Bestselling author Jessie Burton talks to Cheryl Akle about why the tale of Medusa was so appealing to her, and the challenges that go into a retelling. Medusa is out now and explores the infamous mythological figure with a feminist twist.

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Kate Langbroek: on what the Italian way of life can teach us

Sun, 07 Nov 2021 17:00:47 GMT

Comedian, radio and television presenter Kate Langbroek talks to Cheryl Akle about why she moved to Italy with her family, and what the Italian way of life can teach us all. Her memoir, Ciao Bella!, is out now and explores her Italian adventure.

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Yumi Stynes: on breaking the stigma around women's mental and sexual health

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 17:00:58 GMT

Writer, radio broadcaster and television presenter Yumi Stynes talks to Cheryl Akle about how she's breaking the stigma around everything women are thinking but not saying. Ladies, We Need To Talk, a companion book to her ABC podcast, explores the taboo topics of mental health, sex and relationships.

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James Han Mattson: on exploring social issues through horror fiction

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 17:00:46 GMT

James Han Mattson talks to Cheryl Akle about how he explored social issues and racial relations in his literary horror novel, Reprieve.

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Mimi Kwa: on exploring her family history

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 17:00:55 GMT

TV presenter and journalist Mimi Kwa talks to Cheryl Akle about how she explored her incredible family history in her debut memoir, House of Kwa.

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Tricia Stringer: on exploring female friendship in fiction

Sun, 24 Oct 2021 17:00:52 GMT

Bestselling author Tricia Stringer talks to Cheryl Akle about exploring female friendship in fiction, and how COVID has shown us the importance of human connection. Her latest novel, Birds of a Feather, is out now.

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Karen Herbert: on how redundancy lead her to writing The River Mouth

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 17:00:06 GMT

Karen Herbert talks to Cheryl Akle about how being made redundant gave her time to write The River Mouth, and why telling stories with older characters is so important.

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Caroline Overington: on how she turned lockdown into a bestselling thriller

Sun, 17 Oct 2021 17:00:31 GMT

Associate Editor of The Australian and bestselling author Caroline Overington talks to Cheryl Akle about turning The Cuckoo's Cry audiobook into a written novel, and why she decided to set this gripping new thriller during lockdown.

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John Safran: on the smoking epidemic and the rise of vaping

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 17:00:17 GMT

Filmmaker and bestselling author John Safran talks to Cheryl Akle about his latest book, Puff Piece, a deep dive into Big Tobacco and the vaping industry.

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Judy Nunn: on writing, theatre and showbusiness

Sun, 10 Oct 2021 17:00:12 GMT

Bestselling author, screenwriter and actor Judy Nunn talks to Cheryl Akle about her career in theatre and how it has influenced her writing. Her latest novel Showtime! is out now.

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Tom Keneally: on exploring rural Australia through fiction

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 17:00:40 GMT

Award-winning author Tom Keneally talks to Cheryl Akle about his extraordinary legacy and exploring rural Australia through fiction. His latest book, Corporal Hitler’s Pistol, is out now.

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Damien Cave: on how moving to Australia changed his relationship with risk

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 17:00:45 GMT

New York Times Journalist and author Damien Cave talks to Cheryl Akle about his move to Australia, and how it changed the way he and his family approach risk. His latest book, Into the Rip, is out now.

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Brendan Cowell: on acting, writing and everything in between

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 18:00:21 GMT

Award-winning writer, director and actor Brendan Cowell talks to Cheryl Akle about his latest novel, Plum, and why it's so important to foster creativity.

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Tim Ayliffe: on the rise of extremism in Australia

Sun, 26 Sep 2021 18:00:01 GMT

Journalist and author Tim Ayliffe talks to Cheryl Akle about politics, power, and the rise of far-right extremism in Australia. His latest novel, The Enemy Within, is out now.

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Cecelia Ahern: on how we are shaped by the people in our lives

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 18:00:56 GMT

Cecilia Ahern talks to Cheryl Akle about her Sunday Times bestselling novel Freckles, which explores how we are shaped by the people in our lives.

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Alison MacLeod: on the power of fiction

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 18:00:59 GMT

Alison MacLeod talks to Cheryl Akle about her latest historical fiction novel, Tenderness, an exploration of society's reaction to the infamous Lady Chatterley's Lover, and the transformative and triumphant power of fiction itself.

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John M. Green: on publishing

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 18:00:33 GMT

John M. Green talks to Cheryl Akle about co-founding a publishing house, and why it's so important for us to embrace our creative side. His latest novel, Double Deal, is out now.

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Robyn Harding: on why readers are drawn to domestic thrillers

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 18:00:34 GMT

Bestselling author Robyn Harding talks to Cheryl Akle about why she's drawn to writing domestic thrillers, and what makes the genre so popular. Her latest novel, The Perfect Family, is out now.

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Thomas Mayo: on masculinity, love and culture

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 18:00:27 GMT

Thomas Mayo talks to Cheryl Akle about his latest book, Dear Son, a collection of heartfelt letters written by First Nations men about life, masculinity, love, culture and racism.

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Catherine Steadman: on pulling back the curtain on show business

Sun, 05 Sep 2021 18:00:07 GMT

Actor and bestselling author Catherine Steadman talks to Cheryl Akle about being an actress and an author, and how she pulls back the (theatre) curtain on show business in her latest novel, The Disappearing Act.

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Lisa Millar: on overcoming her fear of flying

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 18:00:22 GMT

Walkley Award-winning journalist Lisa Millar talks to Cheryl Akle about the flight that changed her life and how she overcame her fear of flying. Her memoir, Daring to Fly, is out now.

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Jake Avila: on the diving trip that inspired Cave Diver

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 18:00:24 GMT

Jake Avila talks to Cheryl Akle about what makes cave diving so dangerous, and how a diving trip inspired his action-packed thriller, Cave Diver.

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Kim Lock: on using writing as an outlet for anxiety

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 18:00:10 GMT

Kim Lock talks to Cheryl Akle about her acute anxiety and how her experiences living with it inspired her latest novel, The Other Side of Beautiful.

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Karen Brooks: on challenging the male perspective of history

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 18:00:48 GMT

Author and academic Karen Brooks talks to Cheryl Akle about how her historical novels challenge the male perspective of history. Her latest novel, The Good Wife of Bath, is a feminist reworking of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales.

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Dr Norman Swan: on the toll COVID has taken on our wellbeing

Sun, 22 Aug 2021 18:00:02 GMT

Dr Norman Swan talks to Cheryl Akle about his latest book So You Think You Know What's Good for You? and why it's so important to take care of ourselves, especially during COVID.

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Imran Mahmood: on how a courtroom speech inspired his crime writing

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 18:00:44 GMT

Imran Mahmood talks to Cheryl Akle about his career as a criminal defence barrister, which inspired his crime writing. His latest novel, I Know What I Saw, is out now.

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John Doyle: on the life and career of the man behind Rampaging Roy Slaven

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 18:00:09 GMT

Screenwriter, comedian, radio presenter, and author John Doyle talks to Cheryl Akle about his fascinating career, from Triple J to commentating at the Sydney Olympics. His memoir, Blessed, is out now.

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Hannah Bent: on inspiration, grief, and change

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 03:36:47 GMT

Author Hannah Bent talks to Cheryl Akle about her sister who lives with Down Syndrome, and who contracted Encephalitis with devastating consequences. Hannah discusses how a heartbreaking change in her sister inspired her debut novel, When Things Are Alive They Hum.

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Pamela Hart: on cosy mysteries and home renovations

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Pamela Hart talks to Cheryl Akle about home renovations, cosy mysteries, and her first crime novel Digging Up Dirt.

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Kate Thwaites: on toxic culture in Australian Parliament

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Politician and author Kate Thwaites talks to Cheryl Akle about toxic culture and misogyny in the Australian Parliament. Her new book, Enough is Enough, is out now.

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Nicola West: on setting a crime novel in her hometown

Sun, 08 Aug 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Nicola West talks to Cheryl Akle about her small-town upbringing and how her father's law enforcement background influenced her debut novel, Catch Us the Foxes.

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Sophie Green: on how her spiritual beliefs influence her writing

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Sophie Green talks to Cheryl Akle about yoga and how her spiritual beliefs influence her writing. Her latest novel, Thursdays at Orange Blossom House, is out now.

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Zakiya Dalila Harris: on being a young black woman in the publishing industry

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 18:00:00 GMT

New York Times bestselling author Zakiya Dalila Harris talks to Cheryl Akle about diversity in the publishing industry and how her own experience as a black woman working in publishing inspired her debut, The Other Black Girl.

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Kyle Perry: on overcoming the dreaded second book syndrome

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Kyle Perry talks to Cheryl Akle about the overwhelming success of his debut, The Bluffs, and writing The Deep on the back of that.

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James Phelps: on his research into the Australian prison system

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author and journalist James Phelps talks to Cheryl Akle about his switch from writing true crime to fiction for his new novel, The Inside Man, and his research into the Australian prison system.

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Shannah Kennedy: on allowing ourselves to be happy with Plan B

Sun, 25 Jul 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author and life coach, Shannah Kennedy talks to Cheryl Akle about allowing ourselves to be happy when we don’t get what we planned in life. Her new book Plan B is out now.

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Campbell Mattinson: on using writing to break down barriers of love and loss

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Campbell Mattinson talks to Cheryl Akle about how his writing has changed over the years and the tragedy that inspired his debut novel, We Were Not Men.

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Michael Mohammed Ahmad: on being Lebanese-Australian and reclaiming Arab humanity

Sun, 18 Jul 2021 18:00:00 GMT

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Erina Reddan: on how her childhood inspired her fiction

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Walkley award winning journalist Erina Reddan talks to Cheryl Akle about her career as a foreign correspondent and how her childhood inspired her latest novel, The Serpent's Skin.

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Fiona McIntosh: on what makes a good crime novel

Sun, 11 Jul 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Fiona McIntosh talks to Cheryl Akle about hiring a retired detective to help her undertake research for Mirror Man, the third instalment in her DCI Jack Hawksworth series.

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Jillian Cantor: on why she chose to write about Nobel Prize winner Marie Curie

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Jillian Cantor talks to Cheryl Akle about her latest novel, Half Life, which is a fictional reimagining of the life of two time Nobel Prize winning scientist Marie Curie.

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Cassandra Austin: on feminism and how women's roles have changed

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Cassandra Austin talks to Cheryl Akle about her work as a filmmaker, feminism, and how women's roles have changed in the last few decades. Her latest novel, Like Mother, is out now.

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Julia Baird: on winning the ABIA Book of the Year

Sun, 04 Jul 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Award-winning author Julia Baird talks to Cheryl Akle about winning the 2021 ABIA Book of the Year for Phosphorescence, and how the world has changed since its release.

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A.W Hammond: on researching and writing about moral grey areas in his WWII historical novel

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 18:00:00 GMT

A.W. Hammond talks to Cheryl Akle about researching the lives of those in occupied Paris during WWII, the intricacies of WWII historical fiction, and immigrating to Australia as a child. His novel, The Paris Collaborator, is out now.

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Monica Dux: on Catholicism and her lapsed faith

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Monica Dux talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up Catholic and how she lost her faith. Her latest book, Lapsed, explores her relationship with Catholicism.

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Ruhi Lee: on overcoming her family's expectations

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Melbourne writer Ruhi Lee talks to Cheryl Akle about her pathway to writing, her family's reaction to her memoir, and what she hopes for her young daughter. Her memoir, Good Indian Daughter, is out now.

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Mary-Anne O'Connor: on her work with women's shelters and researching women's suffrage

Sun, 27 Jun 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Mary-Anne O'Connor talks to Cheryl Akle about her work with women's shelters, and researching women's suffrage for her latest novel, Sisters of Freedom.

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Kamalle Dabboussy: on his ongoing fight to free his daughter and grandchildren from the Islamic State

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Kamalle Dabboussy speaks to Cheryl about his ongoing fight to free his daughter and grandchildren from an Islamic State nightmare, and the events that led to his daughter being coerced into Syria. His memoir, A Father’s Plea, is out now.

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Cindy Solonec: on her rich cultural heritage

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Dr Cindy Solonec talks to Cheryl Akle about her rich cultural Nigena, Spanish and English heritage, and how she turned her PhD thesis about her family history into her book Debesa.

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Yumiko Kadota: on being a female surgeon in a male-dominated industry

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Yumiko Kadota talks to Cheryl Akle about the challenges she faced as a young female surgeon in a male-dominated industry. Her bestselling memoir, Emotional Female, is out now and explores her experiences in the Australian public hospital system.

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Kate Holden: on what really happened to Glen Turner

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Kate Holden talks to Cheryl Akle about the brutal story behind the murder of Glen Turner, and what inspired her to write about it. Her latest book, The Winter Road, is out now.

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Better Reading Book Chat: episode 14

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Better Reading’s Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, road trips, and their love for audiobooks.

Books mentioned:

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Seven Ancient Wonders by Matthew Reilly

Fully Human by Steve Biddulph

The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris

Good Indian Daughter by Ruhi Lee

When Things Are Alive They Hum by Hannah Bent

We Were Not Men by Campbell Mattinson

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Kathy Reichs: on her career as a forensic anthropologist, crime writer and TV producer

Sun, 13 Jun 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Kathy Reichs talks to Cheryl Akle about how her background as a forensic anthropologist inspired the Temperance Brennan series. The Bone Code, number 20 in the series, is out now.

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Tori Haschka: on her love of food and how it influenced her first novel

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Food and lifestyle writer Tori Haschka talks to Cheryl Akle about her first novel, Grace Under Pressure, their shared love of food, and how it has influenced her career.

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Meredith Jaffé: on writing a book set in a men's prison

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 14:00:00 GMT

Meredith Jaffé talks to Cheryl Akle about why she decided to set her latest novel in a men's prison. The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison explores male friendships, and breaks down stereotypes about life on the inside.

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Dr Robert Isaacs: on bridging the divide between white and black Australia

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Dr Robert Isaacs talks to Cheryl Akle about his religious upbringing, and discovering his indigenous heritage. His memoir, Two Cultures, One Story, is out now.

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Better Reading Book Chat: episode 13

Mon, 31 May 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, what audiobooks they're listening to... and a surprise from author A.J. Gnuse.

Books mentioned:

Toxic by Richard Flanagan

Emotional Female by Yumiko Kadota

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

Legacy by Nora Roberts

Good Indian Daughter by Ruhi Lee

Falling by T.J. Newman

Unsheltered by Clare Moleta

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Cathy Kelly: on journalism, perspective, and how her writing has evolved

Sun, 30 May 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Sunday Times bestselling author Cathy Kelly talks to Cheryl Akle about her early career as a journalist, and how her writing has changed over the years. Her latest book, Other Women, is out now.

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Madeleine Ryan: on being diagnosed with autism while writing A Room Called Earth

Wed, 26 May 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Madeleine Ryan talks to Cheryl Akle about how she was diagnosed with autism while writing her debut novel, A Room Called Earth.

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Better Reading Book Chat: episode 12

Mon, 24 May 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, Cheryl's recent trip to Gundagai, and her new column in The Australian.

Books mentioned:

Debesa by Cindy Solonec

The Beautiful Fall by Hugh Breakey

The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart by Holly Ringland

Bila Yarrudhanggalangdhuray by Anita Heiss

The Girl Remains by Katherine Firkin

Sticks and Stones by Katherine Firkin

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Richard Flanagan: on the rotting underbelly of the Tasmanian salmon industry

Sun, 23 May 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Booker Prize-winning author Richard Flanagan talks to Cheryl Akle about his latest non-fiction book, Toxic, which uncovers the rotting underbelly of the Tasmanian salmon industry.

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Reverend Bill Crews: on twelve practical life lessons for the secular and spiritual alike

Wed, 19 May 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Reverend Bill Crews AM talks to Cheryl Akle about his straight-talking and inspiring manifesto on what it takes to be a better human and how to pay it forward, at a time when the world desperately needs it. 12 Rules for Living a Better Life is out now.

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Better Reading Book Chat: episode 11

Mon, 17 May 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, forensics, art, and their love of dogs.

Books mentioned:

Toxic by Richard Flanagan

The End of Men by Christina Sweeney-Baird

Before You Knew My Name by Jacqueline Bublitz

The Road Trip by Beth O'Leary

How to Train Your Dog by Jen & Ryan Tate

How To Mend a Broken Heart by Rachael Johns

The Bone Code by Kathy Reichs

Still Life by Amber Creswell Bell

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Christina Sweeney-Baird: on imagining a man-killing virus for The End of Men... before COVID-19

Sun, 16 May 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Christina Sweeney-Baird talks to Cheryl Akle about the research that went into writing about a man-killing virus in her debut novel The End of Men, and how the film rights have already sold.

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Book Chat: 2021 Better Reading Top 100

Wed, 12 May 2021 23:05:53 GMT

Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss the 2021 Better Reading Top 100.

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Adam Thompson: on Aboriginal heritage, muttonbirding and storytelling

Mon, 10 May 2021 23:35:35 GMT

Aboriginal (pakana) writer, Adam Thompson talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of maintaining Aboriginal heritage sites, muttonbirding and his journey from storytelling to writing. His debut, Born Into This, is out now.

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Nikki Gemmell: on writing about Australia's dark history

Sun, 09 May 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Nikki Gemmell talks to Cheryl Akle about colonisation, Australia's dark history, and how this inspired her thrilling new historical novel, The Ripping Tree.

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Kate Foster: on raising a neurodiverse child

Wed, 05 May 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Kate Foster talks to Cheryl Akle about her debut children's book Paws, and how her own experience with a neurodiverse child inspired her to write it.

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Better Reading Book Chat: episode 9

Mon, 03 May 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss what they're both reading… and the winning books at the Australian Book Industry Awards.

Books mentioned:

The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams

Phosphorescence by Julia Baird

Born Into This by Adam Thompson

Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid

The Animals in that Country by Laura Jean McKay

A Lonely Girl is a Dangerous Thing by Jessie Tu

Sweet Sweet Revenge LTD by Jonas Jonasson

The Bone Code by Kathy Reichs

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Nicola Moriarty: on growing up in a family of storytellers

Sun, 02 May 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Nicola Moriarty talks to Cheryl Akle about how she grew up in a family of storytellers, and how she's passing on her love of writing to her daughters. Her latest novel, You Need to Know, is a family drama about the secrets we keep, the lies we tell and the truths that won't stay hidden.

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Lisa Harding: on growing up around addiction and the power of escapism

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Actress, playwright and author Lisa Harding talks to Cheryl Akle about the power of escapism, addiction, her childhood, and her acting career. Her latest novel, Bright Burning Things is out now.

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Better Reading Book Chat: episode 8

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases... and audiobooks.

Books mentioned:

The Hill We Climb by Amanda Gorman

The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams

With The Falling of the Dusk by Stan Grant

Sisters of Freedom by Marry-Anne O'Connor

Those Hamilton Sisters by Averil Kenny

A Home Like Ours by Fiona Lowe

My Year of Living Vulnerably by Rick Morton

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George Saunders: on how writing can fundamentally change someone

Sun, 25 Apr 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Man Booker Prize-winning author George Saunders returns to talk to Cheryl Akle about the fundamental way writing can change someone. His latest book, A Swim in a Pond in the Rain, is a deep exploration of writing, and how the mind works while reading.

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Rick Morton: on complex PTSD and rediscovering love

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 18:00:00 GMT

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Better Reading Book Chat: episode 7

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 18:00:32 GMT

Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, the ABIA shortlist... and how they both want to travel on the Ghan!

Books mentioned:

Trick of the Light by Fiona McCallum

The Jam Queens by Josephine Moon

Buddhism for Meat Eaters by Josephine Moon

Half Life by Jillian Cantor

Barrenjoey Road by Neil Mercer and Ruby Jones

You Need to Know by Nicola Moriarty

Mirrorland by Carole Johnstone

Wild at Heart by Alienor le Gouvello

The Truth About Her by Jacqueline Maley

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Stan Grant: on western liberalism and the state of the world

Sun, 18 Apr 2021 18:00:00 GMT

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Neil Mercer: on what happened to Trudie Adams

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Walkley Award-winning investigative journalist Neil Mercer talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of women speaking up, and his latest book Barrenjoey Road. Content warning: Sexual assault

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Katie McMahon: on how her love of medicine turned into a love of writing

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 18:00:00 GMT

GP and author Katie McMahon talks to Cheryl Akle about her career as a doctor, and how her debut novel, The Mistake, was written at a Fiona McIntosh writing masterclass.

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Kirsty Everett: on how she survived cancer not once, but twice

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Motivational speaker and author Kirsty Everett talks to Cheryl Akle about how she survived two bouts of cancer, and how she came to write her memoir Honey Blood.

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Dr Sarah Woodhouse: on trauma and how to break free from it

Sun, 04 Apr 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Research Psychologist Dr Sarah Woodhouse talks to Cheryl Akle about trauma, how most of us have experienced trauma, and how you can break the trauma loop by using the latest research-based techniques that she writes about in her book, You’re Not Broken.

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Better Reading Book Chat: episode 6

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, book news, the Top 100... and elephants.

Books mentioned:

The Chase by Candice Fox

Love Objects by Emily Maguire

The Zookeeper of Belfast by S. Kirk Walsh

Loud by Tana Douglas

As Swallows Fly by L.P. McMahon

Greetings from Trumpland by Zoe Daniel and Roscoe Whalan

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Zoe Daniel: on America's chaotic political climate

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 17:00:00 GMT

U.S. correspondent, journalist, and author Zoe Daniel talks to Cheryl Akle about her latest book, Greetings from Trumpland which explores America's chaotic political climate and how the world has reacted to it.

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Kathy George: on Namibia to Melbourne and more

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Author Kathy George talks to Cheryl Akle about her adventure from Namibia to Melbourne, and her debut novel Sargasso.

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Better Reading Book Chat: episode 5

Sun, 28 Mar 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Better Reading’s Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, Better Reading Preview, the Top 100… and the 2021 Indie Book Award winners.

Books mentioned:

The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams

Honeybee by Craig Silvey

Phosphorescence by Julia Baird

The Grandest Bookshop in the World by Amelia Mellor

A Room Called Earth by Madeleine Ryan

The Jigsaw Man by Nadine Matheson

The Serpent's Skin by Erina Reddan

The Burning Girls by C.J. Tudor

The Believer by Sarah Krasnostein

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Tana Douglas: on being the world's first female roadie and working with legends

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 17:00:00 GMT

World-famous roadie and author Tana Douglas talks to Cheryl Akle about her debut book, Loud, where she shares her experience of becoming the world's first female roadie.

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C.J. Tudor: on interviewing movie stars and becoming an award-winning author

Sun, 21 Mar 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author C.J. Tudor talks to Cheryl Akle about the many movie stars she has interviewed and becoming an award-winning author. Her latest book, The Burning Girls, is her darkest, twistiest novel yet.

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Better Reading Book Chat: episode 4

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 13:00:00 GMT

Better Reading’s Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, book news, the Top 100… and the return of the eighties bonkbuster.

Books mentioned:

Walking with Ghosts by Gabriel Byrne

Girl in the Walls by A.J. Gnuse

My Year of Living Vulnerably by Rick Morton

This is What a Feminist Looks Like by Emily Maguire

Grace Under Pressure by Tori Haschka

Ruthless Women by Melanie Blake

The Last Goodbye by Fiona Lucas

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Janet Skeslien Charles: on the unusual woman who sparked her love of France

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Award-winning author Janet Skeslien Charles talks to Cheryl Akle about how she came to write her latest book, The Paris Library, and the unusual woman who sparked her love of France.

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A.J. Gnuse: on writing short stories (before his six-figure deal novel)

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Author A.J. Gnuse talks to Cheryl Akle about how he went from writing short stories to writing his latest novel, Girl in the Walls, which was bought in a six-figure publishing deal.

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Better Reading Book Chat: episode 3

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 13:00:00 GMT

Better Reading’s Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, book news, the Top 100, and Cheryl’s conversation with literary legend Isabel Allende.

Books mentioned:

The Soul of a Woman by Isabel Allende

The Family Doctor by Debra Oswald

Born Into This by Adam Thompson

A Home Like Ours by Fiona Lowe

The Codebreakers by Alli Sinclair

The Rose Code by Kate Quinn

You’re Not Broken by Dr Sarah Woodhouse

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Australian exclusive - Isabel Allende: on feminism, and approaching it joyfully and together

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author and feminist Isabel Allende talks to Cheryl Akle about how the feminist movement has changed, intersectionality between movements, and being visible. With her latest book, The Soul of a Woman, Allende hopes she will "light the torch of our daughters and granddaughters".

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Abigail Dean: on making the New York Times bestseller list as a debut author

Sun, 07 Mar 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Debut author Abigail Dean talks to Cheryl Akle about making the New York Times bestseller list with her debut novel Girl A, and how her law career helped shape the story.

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Better Reading Book Chat: episode 2

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, book news, the Top 100... and why Cheryl talks to her dog.

Books mentioned:

Growing Up Disabled in Australia by Carly Findlay

My Daughter's Wedding by Gretel Killeen

Other People's Houses by Kelli Hawkins

The Royal Correspondent by Alexandra Joel

Welcome to Nowhere River by Meg Bignell

Driving Stevie Fracasso by Barry Divola

Raft of Stars by Andrew J. Graff

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Kellie McCourt: on dyslexia and dropping out of university to become a poet

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Journalist and author Kellie McCourt talks to Cheryl Akle about reading and writing with dyslexia, and dropping out of university to become a poet. Her debut novel Heiress on Fire is out now.

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Gretel Killeen: on family, generational differences, and dementia

Sun, 28 Feb 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Comedian, television presenter, media personality and author Gretel Killeen talks to Cheryl Akle about her latest novel My Daughters Wedding which explores family, generational differences and the hardships of dementia.

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Alexandra Joel: on how women are held to a higher standard

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Author and former editor of Harper's Bazaar Alexandra Joel talks to Cheryl Akle about her editorial career, the success of her latest book The Royal Correspondent, and why women are often held to a higher standard.

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Jacqui Jones: on building positive foundations for kids

Sun, 21 Feb 2021 17:00:13 GMT

Youth worker and author Jacqui Jones talks to Cheryl Akle about how her extensive career working with children evolved into her latest book The Greatfulness Guide.

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Better Reading Book Chat: episode 1

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 00:56:44 GMT

Better Reading's Cheryl Akle and Jane Tara discuss their favourite new releases, book news... and dinner with Linwood Barclay.

Books mentioned:

Find You First by Linwood Barclay

Light Seekers by Femi Kayode

The Funny Thing About Normal Foreman by Julietta Henderson

The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot by Marianne Cronin

Girl A by Abigail Dean

The Silent Listener by Lyn Yeowart

The Shadow Man by Helen Fields

You’ve Got to Be Kidding by Todd Alexander

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Katherine Kovacic: on serial killers... and dogs

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Author, art historian and self-proclaimed crazy dog lady Katherine Kovacic talks to Cheryl Akle about her time as a veterinarian, her passion for the arts, and the story of a serial killer that inspired her book, The Schoolgirl Strangler.

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Maggie Hamilton: on why human connection is so essential

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author and publisher Maggie Hamilton talks to Cheryl Akle about the damaging effects of social media, and why human connection is so essential. Her latest novel When We Become Strangers is her culmination of these ideas and goes in-depth about how we have become isolated from each other.

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J. P. Pomare: on how Maori heritage influences his writing

Sun, 07 Feb 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author J.P. Pomare talks to Cheryl Akle about his latest book Tell Me Lies, his small-town upbringing, and how Maori heritage influences his writing,

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Richard Osman: on TV, writing... and Steven Spielberg

Sun, 31 Jan 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Comedian, entertainer and author Richard Osman talks to Cheryl Akle about his career in the TV industry, why he decided to start writing, and how Steven Spielberg obtained the rights to his latest novel, The Thursday Murder Club.

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Anita Abriel: on her extraordinary family history and why she decided to write about it

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Anita Abriel talks to Cheryl Akle about her family's history during World War II, and why she decided to write about it.

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Kate Elizabeth Russell: on the sometimes fine line between coercion and seduction

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Kate Elizabeth Russell talks to Cheryl Akle about why she decided to write about the confronting topics in her debut novel My Dark Vanessa and what inspires her writing.

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Mary Li: on her love for her family and how it changed her career

Sun, 24 Jan 2021 17:00:00 GMT

World-renowned dancer and author Mary Li talks to Cheryl Akle about her Rockhampton upbringing, the impact of her husband's bestselling book Mao's Last Dancer, and how having her daughter changed her life.

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Sue Brierley: on why she chose adoption and the challenges she faced

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Author and mother Sue Brierley talks to Cheryl Akle about why she chose adoption, the different challenges she faced with it, and how it strengthened her family. All things discussed in her book, Lioness.

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Ceridwen Dovey: on her multicultural upbringing and how her Harvard education shaped her writing

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Social anthropologist and author Ceridwen Dovey talks to Cheryl Akle about her multicultural upbringing and how her experience at Harvard shaped her latest book, Life After Truth.

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Greg Quicke: on stargazing and outback astronomy

Sun, 10 Jan 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Astronomer and author Greg Quicke talks to Cheryl Akle about stargazing in the outback, and how the stars can change our perspective on life. Is the Moon Upside Down? is Greg's latest book.

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Candida Baker: on communicating with horses

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Candida Baker talks to Cheryl Akle about life in the theatre, moving to Australia, and coming out of the psychic closet. She has a profound connection to animals, especially horses, which she writes about in her latest book, The Heart of a Horse.

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Sue Smethurst: on what sparked her career in journalism

Sun, 03 Jan 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Journalist and author Sue Smethurst talks to Cheryl Akle about her career in journalism, the family story she had to tell, and her book The Freedom Circus.

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Denise Leith: on her incredible experiences traveling through the Middle East

Tue, 29 Dec 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Author Denise Leith talks to Cheryl Akle about her travels through the Middle East, shares some stories about her time there, and reveals how it shaped her new novel, The Night Letters.

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Garry Disher: on publishing his first book and how crime fiction has evolved

Sun, 27 Dec 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Garry Disher talks to Cheryl Akle about how he published his first book and how crime fiction has evolved throughout the years.

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Jenny Hocking: on the Whitlam Government and the fight to release the infamous Palace Letters

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Political scientist and biographer Jenny Hocking talks to Cheryl Akle about the Whitlam Government and the fight to release the infamous Palace Letters between Sir John Kerr and Queen Elizabeth II. All things explored in her book, The Palace Letters.

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Fiona McIntosh: on Champagne... the history, the industry and travelling to research a novel on it

Sun, 20 Dec 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Fiona McIntosh talks to Cheryl Akle about Champagne, how travelling has influenced her writing, and the incredible story behind her newest book, The Champagne War.

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William McInnes: on Christmas

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 01:05:47 GMT

William McInnes talks to Cheryl Akle about the fun and wonder in the mundane, his love of Christmas, and how both these are celebrated in his latest book, Christmas Tales.

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Matthew McConaughey: on humour, values and Greenlights

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Award winning actor and family man, Matthew McConaughey talks to Cheryl Akle about humour (and how we need more it), values and his new book Greenlights. And he also reflects on the year he spent in Australia as an exchange student.

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Joanne Fedler: on the female experience and finding freedom over fifty

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Author Joanne Fedler talks to Cheryl Akle about exploring the female experience, and how turning fifty changes your perspective, something she explores in her new book, Unbecoming.

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Monica McInerney: on releasing a book during Covid and how her childhood shaped her writing

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Monica McInerney talks to Cheryl Akle about the experience of releasing a book during Covid, and how her childhood shaped her writing.

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Rebecca Higgie: on the importance of libraries and the romanticized idea of writing

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Author Rebecca Higgie talks to Cheryl Akle about how libraries have evolved with the digital age, and how the writing process is often romanticized.

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Patrick Carlyon: on the Melbourne gangland killings and the city's dark history

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Author and journalist Patrick Carlyon talks to Cheryl Akle about the infamous Melbourne gangland killings, and the city's dark history of crime. All things explored in his new book, Lawyer X.

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Fiona O'Loughlin: on her religious upbringing and surviving alcoholism

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Comedian and author Fiona O'Loughlin talks to Cheryl Akle about her religious upbringing in a small South Australian town, and her experiences with alcoholism. Her memoir, Truths from an Unreliable Witness explores this and more.

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Nigella Lawson: on why Cook, Eat, Repeat is the story of her life

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Nigella Lawson talks to Cheryl Akle about how the mundane tasks involved in cooking free up her creative side, and her latest bestseller, Cook, Eat, Repeat. She also reviews Cheryl's Crème Brûlée (yes she's tried it!).

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Ben Pobjie: on life in comedy and how it shapes his writing

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Comedian and author Ben Pobjie talks to Cheryl Akle about his incredible life in the comedy world, how it has shaped his writing, and his newest book, Second Best: The Amazing Untold Histories of the Greatest Runners-up.

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Dawn French: on her journey to writing and making lifelong friendships

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 17:00:03 GMT

Comedian, author and actor Dawn French talks to Cheryl Akle about her inspiring journey to writing and the many connections and lifelong friendships she has made along the way.

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Nick Bryant: on post election America and what we can expect from the results

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Nick Bryant talks to Cheryl Akle about post election America, how the country got to where it is, and what we can expect moving forward. All things discussed in Nick's new book, When America Stopped Being Great.

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Tania Blanchard: on telling her grandmother’s stories

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 03:41:35 GMT

Tania Blanchard talks to Cheryl Akle about her career from physiotherapist to bestselling author, and sharing her grandmother’s stories in The Girl from Munich, Suitcase of Dreams and now Letters from Berlin.

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Belinda Alexandra: on writing, publishing and resilience

Sun, 22 Nov 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Belinda Alexandra talks to Cheryl Akle about her publishing and writing journey. Always fascinating, she discusses the rejection she experienced along the way - and looking back now as she publishes her 9th novel, The Mystery Woman.

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Ronni Kahn: on growing up in South Africa and finding her ambition

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Activist, entrepreneur and author Ronni Kahn talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up in South Africa during Apartheid, finding her voice and ambition, and reflecting on what brings her happiness in life.

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Stan Walker: on overcoming a painful past and singing Cheryl a song

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Actor, Singer/songwriter and author Stan Walker talks to Cheryl Akle about overcoming a painful past, and even sings her a song.

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Paul Dalgarno: on polyamory and his journalism career

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Paul Dalgarno talks to Cheryl Akle about his polyamorous lifestyle which he explores in his new novel, Poly.

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Bradley Trevor Greive: on meeting the Bloom family and telling their story

Sun, 08 Nov 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Bradley Trevor Greive talks to Cheryl Akle about meeting the Bloom family, telling their story, and travelling the world. Sam Bloom: Heartache & Birdsong is his newest book in collaboration with Cameron and Samantha Bloom.

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Fiona Palmer: on Speedway driving and rural living

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Fiona Palmer talks to Cheryl Akle about her Speedway driving career, small town living, and the process of writing her novel, Tiny White Lies.

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Craig Silvey: on the books that shaped his childhood

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Craig Silvey talks to Cheryl Akle about his journey after writing his modern classic, Jasper Jones, and the books that shaped his childhood and still influence his writing today. A perfect listen if you enjoyed his new book, Honeybee.

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Kate Mildenhall: on podcasts, writing and the fear of failure

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Kate Mildenhall talks to Chery Akle about her own podcast, how she came to writing, fearing failure (but doing it anyway) and more. A great listen for any aspiring authors.

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Richard Flanagan: on unexpected tenderness and grateful wonder

Sun, 25 Oct 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Booker Prize winning author Richard Flanagan talks to Cheryl Akle about the unexpected tenderness he's discovered this year, the renewed attention to the beauty of the world, and the spirit of hope and grateful wonder. All things also expressed in his latest novel, The Living Sea of Waking Dreams.

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Nick Bryant: on America's decline, Trump... and on getting COVID

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Foreign correspondent, Nick Bryant talks to Cheryl Akle about the political, economic, cultural and technological factors that contributed to America's decline and inadvertently paved the way for Trump's presidency. And also about him and his wife getting COVID.

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Sue Miller: on observation, character and writing about something that terrifies her

Sun, 18 Oct 2020 17:00:00 GMT

The Good Mother author, Sue Miller talks to Cheryl Akle about her life, being a reader, scholar, the point where she realised she was in charge of her inner life, and her latest novel, Monogamy.

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Hazel Gaynor: on her unusual journey from self publishing to traditional publishing

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author, Hazel Gaynor talks to Cheryl Akle about the unusual route she took to publication. An excellent episode for aspiring authors.

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Turia Pitt: on the small steps that lead to happiness

Sun, 11 Oct 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Turia Pitt is living proof that, with the right mindset, anything is possible. Here she talks to Cheryl about life, gratitude and Happy (and other ridiculous aspirations).

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Christine Jackman: on how to find silence in a noisy world

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Journalist Christine Jackman talks to Cheryl Akle about the noisy world we live in, and how Turning Down the Noise benefits our brains, our lives and our communities.

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Trent Dalton: on the private conversations we have with the sky

Sun, 04 Oct 2020 17:00:19 GMT

Author Trent Dalton (and yes, that will now be on his email signature) talks to Cheryl Akle about the huge success of Boy Swallows Universe, and how his highly anticipated second novel was inspired by the sky.

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Kiley Reid: a look back at her podcast with us, recorded before her success with Such A Fun Age

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Kiley Reid's Such A Fun Age didn't make the Booker Prize shortlist, but we're still celebrating her longlist nomination, and all the success this sensational debut has had. Here we revisit the podcast she recorded with Better Reading, before her bestselling book was even published.

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David Sinclair Ph.D: on fasting, ageing, and a pill that will help you live longer

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 05:01:09 GMT

Renowned Harvard University geneticist David SinclairPh.D. talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up in Sydney, working at Harvard, his research on ageing and a pill that will help people live longer.

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Allison Tait: on podcasts, writing and being a voracious reader as a child

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 00:00:29 GMT

The Fire Star author, Allison Tait talks to Cheryl Akle about podcasts, writing children’s books and being a voracious reader as a child.

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Yotam Ottolenghi and Ixta Belfrage: on food, collaboration, their new cookbook FLAVOUR

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 18:00:28 GMT

Yotam Ottolenghi and Ixta Belfrage discuss food and collaboration, as well as their new cookbook FLAVOUR.

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Greg Woodland: on his journey from screenplay to novel

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 18:00:42 GMT

The Night Whistler author, Greg Woodland discuss obsessive plotting with Cheryl Akle, along with his background as a screenwriter and how that helped shape his novel.

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Hugh van Cuylenburg: on showing up for the present moment

Sun, 13 Sep 2020 22:49:03 GMT

Hugh van Cuylenburg talks to Cheryl Akle about resilience, gratitude and happiness, and about getting better at being wherever you are.

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Rose Carlyle: on her love of sailing and spending a year sailing around the Indian Ocean

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Debut author Rose Carlyle's thriller The Girl in the Mirror has been a huge success - Here she tells Cheryl all about her sailing adventures, and how she incorporated that knowledge into the novel.

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John Wood: on how he clawed his way to the middle

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 00:54:36 GMT

Actor John Wood talks to Cheryl about his life, his career, and his fascinating new memoir How I Clawed My Way to the Middle.

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Michael Robotham: on the science of lying and the inspiration behind his characters

Sun, 30 Aug 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Cheryl Akle chats to best selling author Michael Robotham about the science of lying, TV adaptions, and the inspiration behind his characters.

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Nat Amoore: on the importance of storytelling and how it affects kids

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 02:25:26 GMT

Cheryl Akle talks to Nat Amoore about making reading fun for kids, the circus, and the power of storytelling.

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Anna Downes: on her colourful road to writing a bestselling debut thriller

Sun, 23 Aug 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Anna Downes has worn many different hats, including student, actress, and caretaker at a French estate... the job that inspired her bestselling debut novel, The Safe Place.

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Anstey Harris: on telling tall tales when the truth isn’t interesting enough

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 02:04:54 GMT

Award-winning writer Anstey Harris talks to Cheryl Akle about the tall tales she told as a child, and how happiness is available to everyone.

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Kyle Perry: on mental health, social media and its effects on teens

Sun, 09 Aug 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Author of the debut thriller The Bluffs, Kyle Perry talks to Cheryl Akle about mental health, the dangers of social media, and how it affects the youth of today.

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Robyn Harding: on writing different genres, living in a small town, and the how we rely on the reading community.

Sun, 02 Aug 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Cheryl Akle chats to Robyn Harding about moving between genres, living in a small town, and the how we rely on the reading community.

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Dr Randa Abdel Fattah: A Conversation about Diversity in Children’s Books #1

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 18:20:00 GMT

In episode 1, Bestselling author and academic, Dr Randa Abdel Fattah talks to Cheryl Akle about being Muslim in post 9/11 Australia, the lack of diversity in Australia's school curriculum, and how it's time for Muslim authors to be given a voice.

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Maxine Beneba Clarke: A Conversation about Diversity in Children’s Books #2

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 18:16:00 GMT

In episode 2, Maxine Beneba Clarke and Cheryl Akle discuss growing up as a POC in Australia, what happens when a child is underrepresented in what they read, and how the publishing industry needs to diversify their content.

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Will Kostakis: A Conversation about Diversity in Children’s Books #3

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 18:12:00 GMT

In episode 3, Will Kostakis talks to Cheryl Akle about LGBTQ+ representation in schools, how diversity is constantly changing, and why we must get beyond 'the struggle story' when creating diverse stories for kids.

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Laura Bloom: A Conversation about Diversity in Children’s Books #4

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 18:08:00 GMT

In episode 4, Laura Bloom is the mother of an autistic son who has an intellectual disability. Here Laura talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of disabled characters in books, and how both her and her son are active in the Every Australian Counts movement for People With Disability.

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Deborah Abela: A Conversation about Diversity in Children’s Books #5

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 18:04:00 GMT

In episode 5, Deborah Abela talks to Cheryl Akle about the benefits of diversifying children's literature, and her work with young people in Sydney's west with organisations such as WestWords.

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Rachel Bin Salleh from Magabala Books: A Conversation about Diversity in Children’s Books #6

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 18:00:00 GMT

In episode 6, Rachel Bin Salleh from Magabala Books talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey to becoming a publisher, the importance of giving diverse authors a voice, and what the publishing industry can do to support those authors. This is the final episode in the series, A Conversation about Diversity in Children's Books, produced with a grant from The Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

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Tara June Winch revisited: on life, the land, and writing her Miles Franklin winning novel, The Yield

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 00:47:48 GMT

Tara June Winch has won the 2020 Miles Franklin Literary Award for The Yield. Here we revisit our podcast with Tara, where she talks to Cheryl Akle about her extensive travels, living in France, her connection to the land as a Wiradjuri woman, and her journey to writing The Yield.

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Julia Gillard: on Women and Leadership

Sun, 19 Jul 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Former Prime Minister of Australia, Julia Gillard speaks to Cheryl Akle about the influence of gender on women’s access to positions of leadership, extraordinary female leaders, and her inspiring new book, co-authored with Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Women and Leadership.

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Susan Allott: on Life in the UK and how Environment Shapes our Writing

Sun, 12 Jul 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Author of The Silence, Susan Allott talks to Cheryl about life in the UK, how our favourite authors impact us, and how our environment ultimately shapes our writing.

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Hayley Katzen: on finding her place in the world

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 00:01:19 GMT

South African urban academic, Hayley Katzen talks to Cheryl Akle about her journey to finding 'home' on a cattle property in Northern NSW, and her beautifully written memoir about it, Untethered.

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Jacqueline Harvey: on why Reading is Important for Kids, and How to Make it fun for Them at Home

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 01:14:26 GMT

Best selling kids author, Jacqueline Harvey talks to Cheryl about why reading is important for kids, and how to make it fun for them at home.

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Chris Flynn: on the climate, science and the future of cloning

Sun, 28 Jun 2020 18:00:30 GMT

Mammoth author, Chris Flynn talks to Cheryl Akle about nature during quarantine, the climate, and the future of cloning.

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Dugald Bruce Lockhart: on acting, writing and being the son of a spy

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 02:44:13 GMT

Dugald Bruce-Lockhart talks to Cheryl Akle about his journey to becoming an author, and the very interesting childhood he had as the son of a spy.

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Lisa Ireland: on giving older people a voice in her new novel

Sun, 21 Jun 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Lisa Ireland talks to Cheryl Akle about her life, her journey to becoming an author, and creating older characters, without the stereotypes.

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Melina Marchetta: on writing for a whole new age group

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Award winning author, Melina Marchetta talks to Cheryl Akle about reading the way she writes – across many genres, and how it was more difficult that she expected writing her new series for a younger audience.

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Peter Carey: The importance of story in troubling times #3

Sun, 14 Jun 2020 18:00:35 GMT

Two-time Booker Prize winner and three times Miles Franklin Literary Award winner, Peter Carey talks to Cheryl Akle about life in New York, writing about Australia, and everything in-between.

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Patrick Ness: on how complacency is the death of creativity

Sun, 14 Jun 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Award-winning author, Patrick Ness digs in deep with Cheryl as they talk about his life, fiction, YA versus adult fiction, and how he believes that complacency is creative death.

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Sami Tamimi and Tara Wigley: on food, their collaboration... and the perfect hummus

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Foodie, Cheryl Akle has her dream guests on today - Sami Tamimi and Tara Wigley talk about food, the Ottolenghi empire, and their bestselling cookbook collaborations.

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Anna Funder: The importance of story in troubling times #2

Sun, 07 Jun 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Acclaimed author of Stasiland, Anna Funder talks to Cheryl Akle about the public and private sides of the pandemic, and how women are crucial in these times, despite continued gender inequality.

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Miranda Tapsell: life, performance and being a Top End Girl

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Actress, producer and writer, Miranda Tapsell talks to Cheryl Akle about life, loneliness, growing up in Kakadu National Park, and taking the people you care about on the ride to the top. A great conversation with one of Australia’s most interesting creative powerhouses.

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Kate Grenville: The importance of story in troubling times #1

Sun, 31 May 2020 18:00:28 GMT

Literary icon, Kate Grenville talks to Cheryl Akle about the importance of story, on truth, and not believing too quickly in the stories you're told.

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Tayla Harris: AFL, boxing and 'that' photo

Tue, 26 May 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Aussie Rules star Tayla Harris talks to Cheryl Akle about her life, her love of sport and the famous photo that fed the trolls. An inspiring conversation, with great young role model.

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Katherine Scholes: Africa, storytelling, and fictional pandemics

Sun, 24 May 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author, Katherine Scholes talks to Cheryl Akle about isolation, not only during a pandemic, but as a writer and storyteller, and her connection to Africa, on and off the page.

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Sophie McNeill: The Middle East and why We Can't Say We Didn't Know

Tue, 19 May 2020 01:28:04 GMT

Award winning reporter and author of We Can’t Say We Didn’t Know, Sophie McNeil talks to Cheryl Akle about her work in, and love of, the Middle East.

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Pip Williams: how Dyslexia shaped her love of storytelling

Sun, 17 May 2020 23:18:07 GMT

Pip Williams has written one of the most talked about books of the year - The Dictionary of Lost Words, a fictional retelling of the compilation of the Oxford English Dictionary. Here she talks to Cheryl Akle about her love of words, stories and how her dyslexia shaped that.

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Danielle Binks: fan fiction and a passion for books

Sun, 10 May 2020 23:38:11 GMT

Danielle Binks chats to Cheryl Akle about the many hats she has worn in the book industry, from writer of fan fiction to literary agent, to author. A fascinating podcast with a true reading advocate.

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Lauren Chater: on life, books and Gulliver's Wife

Sun, 10 May 2020 18:31:55 GMT

Always fascinating, Lauren Chater talks to Cheryl Akle about Estonian lace, storytelling in unprecedented times, and Gulliver's Wife.

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Malcolm Turnbull: politics, the environment and the Liberal Party

Thu, 07 May 2020 18:00:18 GMT

A fascinating conversation between Cheryl Akle and former Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, where they talk politics, the environment, Julia Gillard's misogyny speech, and the book everyone is talking about, A Bigger Picture.

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Jess Hill: 2020 Stella Prize winner on domestic abuse

Sun, 03 May 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Investigative journalist, Jess Hill won the 2020 Stella Prize for her book on domestic abuse, See What You Made Me Do. Here, she talks to Cheryl Akle about the prize, and about domestic abuse in Australia.

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Kelly Rimmer: nothing compares to when readers share their personal stories

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 18:00:35 GMT

Bestselling author Kelly Rimmer talks to Cheryl about how her readers often share their most personal stories with her, and how moving that is.

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Andrew Daddo Get Kids Reading: how to make reading fun

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 05:18:18 GMT

Bestselling children’s author and TV presenter, Andrew Daddo talks to Cheryl Akle about why reading to children is important and how to make it fun.

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Caroline Overington: Missing William Tyrrell

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 18:00:47 GMT

Best-selling author and Walkley Award-winning journalist, Caroline Overington, talks to Cheryl Akle about one of Australia's most baffling and heartbreaking mysteries, and her book on the case, Missing William Tyrrell.

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Karina Kilmore: journalism to fiction and the tie between the two

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 01:09:16 GMT

Karina Kilmore was a journalist with more than 30 years’ experience before writing one of this year's most anticipated novels, Where the Truth Lies. Hear more about that journey as she speaks to Cheryl Akle.

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Candice Fox: visiting prison in the name of research

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 14:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author, and cracking storyteller, Candice Fox chats to Cheryl Akle about the darker side of writing crime, and the joy of new motherhood.

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Richard Denniss: the economic impact of COVID19

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 14:00:00 GMT

Richard Denniss, the Chief Economist of The Australia Institute, talks to Cheryl Akle about about politics and economics, and what Australia will look like post COVID-19.

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Julia Baird: things that sustain you when the world goes dark

Sun, 05 Apr 2020 18:20:13 GMT

Julia Baird talks to Cheryl Akle about tough times, including the worldwide one now, and how to find the peace and stillness to not only survive it, but thrive in it.

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Ruby Hamad: white women's tears

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Ruby Hamad talks to Cheryl Akle about white women's tears, in this confronting episode, reality check for the privileged position of the white woman.

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Charles Firth: The Chaser and beyond

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Co-founder of The Chaser, Australia's longest running fortnightly satirical newspaper, Charles Firth has Cheryl Akle laughing in this very entertaining episode.

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Emily Maguire: feminism... and what it really looks like

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Emily Macguire's book, This Is What a Feminist Looks Like shows us how we got to where we are today — and reminds us that some battles must be fought over and over again. In this fascinating podcast, Emily Macguire discusses this with Cheryl Akle.

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Tea Cooper: boarding school to bestselling author

Sun, 08 Mar 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Tea Cooper, author of The Girl in the Painting discusses her life, from England to Australia, boarding school to bestselling author.

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Adele Parks

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 05:51:29 GMT

In this episode with the fascinating Adele Parks, you'll understand how she became a bestselling author - she's a born storyteller!

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Leah Purcell

Sun, 01 Mar 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Creative powerhouse Leah Purcell talks books, films, storytelling... and the road she's taken to success.

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Fiona Lowe

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 01:04:50 GMT

From midwife to community nurse for teen girls to bestselling author, Fiona Lowe shares her journey.

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Dr Rupy Aujla

Sun, 23 Feb 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Dr Rupy Aujla talks to Cheryl Akle about cooking and food being medicine, health, and being a medical doctor today.

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Melissa Ashley

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 02:42:23 GMT

Melissa Ashley talks about the extraordinary Marie Catherine d’Aulnoy who ran a literary salon in Paris in the 1700s and published the very first fairy tale, women's lives during that time, and her novel The Bee and the Orange Tree.

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Fiona Macintosh 2

Sun, 16 Feb 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author, Fiona McIntosh talks to Cheryl Akle about how it was inevitable that she would write a book about diamonds.

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Pip Drysdale

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 00:07:10 GMT

Pip Drysdale talks about growing up in Africa and Australia, and her journey to becoming an author, via being an actor and musician.

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Garry Linnell

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 01:27:39 GMT

Walkley Award winning journalist, Garry Linnell talks politics and then spins a yarn about the fascinating life of William Buckley, and the book he wrote about him, Buckley's Chance.

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Bernadette Agius

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 05:52:47 GMT

Bernadette Agius talks to Cheryl Akle about her inspiring, heartfelt, and powerful journey as a mother of a child with Down syndrome, something she explores in her book I'm Staying at Richard's.

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Christian White

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 00:38:26 GMT

Christian White talks to Cheryl Akle in a follow-up podcast, on the success around his debut The Nowhere Child, and his second novel, The Wife and the Widow.

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Darry Fraser

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 01:54:00 GMT

Darry Fraser talks to Cheryl Akle about her life on Kangaroo Island and finding success with her novels.

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Jeff Sparrow

Sun, 26 Jan 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Jeff Sparrow talks to Cheryl Akle about Fascism, hate and the power of troll culture on the internet, all featured in his latest book, FASCISTS AMONG US
Online Hate and the Christchurch Massacre.

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Katherine Johnson

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 03:51:10 GMT

Katherine Johnson talks to Cheryl Akle about her PhD and ethnic shows, or humans zoos, which were big business in Europe during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and also the inspiration for her novel, Paris Savages.

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Mary Moody

Sun, 19 Jan 2020 22:55:11 GMT

Mary Moody talks to Cheryl Akle about her incredible life and travels, and the death of her husband, which she writes about in The Accidental Tour Guide.

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James Phelps

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 00:48:00 GMT

Award-winning senior reporter James Phelps talks to Cheryl Akle about footballers, true crime and the bush rangers who pulled off this country's greatest gold robbery, which he writes about in Australian Heist.

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Jane Cockram

Sun, 12 Jan 2020 23:19:00 GMT

Jane Cockram talks to Cheryl Akle about to pathway she took through the book industry before writing her debut novel, The House of Brides.

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Dion Leonard

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 00:35:12 GMT

Ultra marathon runner met a stray dog halfway across China's Gobi desert, and it changed his life. Here he talks to Cheryl Akle about 'Gobi' and the book he wrote about her.

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Kiley Reid

Sun, 05 Jan 2020 23:46:39 GMT

Kiley Reid talks to Cheryl Akle about race and privilege in America today and how her life influenced her debut novel, Such a Fun Age.

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Blanche d'Alpuget

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 03:39:38 GMT

Blanche d'Alpuget talks to Cheryl Akle about life with Bob Hawke, and her biography on him.

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Christos Tsiolkas

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 03:00:14 GMT

Bestselling author, Christos Tsiolkas and Cheryl Akle dig deep and discuss shame, fear, bigotry, and the most important conversation that Christos had with his mother.

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Joy Rhoades

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 04:49:25 GMT

Joy Rhoades talks about growing up in Australia, living in London and writing her latest Australian historical, The Burnt Country.

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Tara Moss

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 02:02:44 GMT

Tara Moss talks to Cheryl Akle about her life, living between Australia and Canada and how the 'ranking of humans' has influenced her latest novel, Dead Man Switch.

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Rachael Treasure

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 02:05:52 GMT

Bestselling author, Rachael Treasure has moved in very different directions recently - in her writing and on the land. Listen as she discusses the changes with Cheryl Akle.

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Jack Charles

Sun, 08 Dec 2019 23:05:53 GMT

Australian legend, Uncle Jack Charles talks to Cheryl Akle about surviving, healing and his brilliant memoir, Born-Again Blakfella.

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Andrew Daddo

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 02:36:55 GMT

Andrew Daddo talks Cheryl Akle through his childhood, career and his love of books. A highly entertaining listen, with one of Australia's most recognisable authors.

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Tricia Stringer

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 01:20:33 GMT

Bestselling women's fiction writer, Tricia Stringer talks to Cheryl Akle about her background, her love of South Australia, and her path to publication.

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Jane Sullivan

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 00:55:24 GMT

Jane Sullivan talks to Cheryl Akle about the books that shape us as children, and her journey to revisit her favourite tales in her book, Storytime.

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Michael Connelly

Sun, 24 Nov 2019 23:35:11 GMT

Megastar author, Michael Connelly has written thirty-three novels and has sold over seventy-four million copies. Here is talks to Cheryl Akle about his life and incredible career.

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Elliot Perlman

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 01:13:02 GMT

Award winning author Elliot Perlman talks about his life With Cheryl Akle, from his childhood to working in a corporate environment, the politics that shape his stories, including his latest book, Maybe The Horse Will Talk.

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Dr Richard Harris and Dr Craig Challen on the Thai Cave Rescue

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 00:20:21 GMT

Richard Harris and Craig Challen talk to Cheryl Akle about their involvement in the rescue of the Wild Boars soccer team from the Thai cave, and the book they've written about the experience, Against All Odds.

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Dr Karl Kruszelnicki

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 01:03:13 GMT

Dr Karl talks to Cheryl Akle about... everything! His life, his work and many other fascinating and amazing scientific facts you've never thought about...

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Tim Slee

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 01:42:54 GMT

Tim Slee talks to Cheryl Akle about his very international life and travels, and his very Australian debut novel, Taking Tom Murray Home.

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Judy Nunn

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 03:59:28 GMT

Judy Nunn talks to Cheryl Akle about her childhood, life as an actress, a bestselling author and the true tale behind her latest number #1 novel, Khaki Town.

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Jono Lineen

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 00:18:11 GMT

Jono Lineen talks to Cheryl Akle about walking, how walking makes us wiser, the power of pilgrimage, his adventures walking the world, and his book on walking, Perfect Motion.

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Mem Fox

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 04:35:42 GMT

Legendary children's author, Mem Fox talks to Cheryl Akle about her life and career, and why she wrote her latest picture book The Tiny Star for her grandson.

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Diane Armstrong

Sun, 13 Oct 2019 22:45:52 GMT

Diane Armstrong talks to Cheryl Akle about her fascinating life, from Poland to Australia, journalism to travel, and how her career as a bestselling author began.

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Heather Morris

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 02:37:01 GMT

Heather Morris talks to Cheryl Akle about the phenomenal success of her book The Tattooist of Auschwitz, and how she came to write the sequel, Cilka's Journey.

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Sarah Barrie

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 04:37:18 GMT

Bestselling crime writer Sarah Barrie talks to Cheryl Akle about life, a wide and varied career including equine therapy, and how she came to writing.

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Lucy Bloom

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 02:20:39 GMT

Social entrepreneur Lucy Bloom talks to Cheryl about her life and what led her on her amazing journey to being one of the world's leading change makers.

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Paula Saunders

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 03:53:38 GMT

US author, Paula Saunders talks to Cheryl Akle about the complexities of families, modern America and her family saga The Distance Home.

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Mark Brandi

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 06:49:27 GMT

Mark Brandi chats to Cheryl Akle about growing up Italian in a small Australian town, and how that influenced his crime writing, and his latest book, The Rip.

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Benjamin Law

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 06:09:00 GMT

Benjamin Law talks to Cheryl Akle about everything from his big, loud migrant family, his childhood, and his family to popular culture and structural racism.

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Adele Ferguson

Tue, 27 Aug 2019 05:28:36 GMT

Multi-award-winning journalist, Adele Ferguson talks to Cheryl Akle about her investigations into banks which helped bring about the royal commission, and her new book, Banking Bad.

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Louise Milligan - Cardinal: The Rise and Fall of George Pell

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 12:54:06 GMT

Cardinal George Pell was Australia's most powerful Catholic, jailed in March 2019 for child sexual assault. To coincide with Pell's failed appeal, Better Reading has decided to immediately release our podcast with Award-winning investigative reporter, Louise Milligan. This is a fascinating, powerful and timely conversation between Cheryl Akle and the author of Cardinal: The Rise and Fall of George Pell. This podcast explores the culture of entitlement and bullying that allowed the abusers, Pell included, to get away with their crimes for far too long. Louise and Cheryl also delve into the tragic stories of the victims, highlighting the life-long impact of their childhood abuse.

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Dave Glasheen

Tue, 20 Aug 2019 05:23:11 GMT

Dave Glasheen talks to Cheryl Akle about losing a fortune and moving to Restoration Island, the unusual life he writes about in his memoir The Millionaire Castaway.

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Kaneana May

Tue, 20 Aug 2019 05:03:26 GMT

Kaneana May talks to Cheryl Akle about screenwriting and the road to publishing her book, The One ... and why she loves Barbie.

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Morris Gleitzman

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 01:12:30 GMT

Australian Children's Laureate for 2018 and 2019, Morris Gleitzman talks to Cheryl Akle about writing children's fiction.

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Paullina Simons

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 23:01:45 GMT

Bestselling author Paullina Simons talks to Cheryl Akle about her fascinating background and her incredible career.

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Gabbie Stroud

Tue, 06 Aug 2019 05:55:32 GMT

Former teacher, Gabbi Stroud talks to Cheryl Akle about her groundbreaking essay Teaching Australia, and her book Teacher that sprang from that. She discusses what kids need from their teachers, and why she believes the education system in Australia is broken.

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Tara June Winch

Tue, 06 Aug 2019 05:32:15 GMT

Tara June Winch talks to Cheryl Akle about her extensive travels, living in France, and her connection to the land as a Wiradjuri woman. Plus her latest novel, The Yield.

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The road to publication with Nikki Christer

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 04:32:58 GMT

Nikki Christer, the Group Publishing Director at Penguin Random House Australia talks about the publishing process, the difference between agents and publishers, why editing is so important… and what she needs in a story to encourage her to offer an author a publishing deal.

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Dialogue with Melina Marchetta

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 04:31:00 GMT

Dialogue expert extraordinaire, Melina Marchetta discusses the importance of dialogue, and how that voice defines her characters, the setting and the story she tells.

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Research and setting with Candice Fox

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 04:27:34 GMT

Candice Fox has immersed herself in both setting and research. She’s lived in LA, she’s visited a serial killer on death row, and even had dinner with an American President, all in the name of research. Hear all this and much more in this highly entertaining episode.

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Character building with Belinda Alexandra

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 04:25:50 GMT

Belinda Alexandra talks about how she immerses herself in the world she’s writing about so her characters come to life. She talks about how some characters have a mind of their own… and how she even develops a full-blown crush on the occasional hero.

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Story and plot development with Dervla McTiernan

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 04:22:00 GMT

Dervla McTiernan discusses plot, how important structure is in your novel, and how she approaches writing a novel. And she shares what the sign on her wall says, that reminds her what is important, every time she writes.

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The writer with Trent Dalton

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 04:20:30 GMT

Trent Dalton, the author of the phenomenally successful novel Boy Swallows Universe discusses the heart and soul of the writer and what being a writer means to him. He talks through the process of writing Boy Swallows Universe, as well as his work as a Walkley Award winning journalist.

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Armando Lucas Correa

Tue, 16 Jul 2019 03:47:28 GMT

Journalist, editor and author Armando Lucas Correa talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up in Cuba, life in New York, and his latest novel, The Daughter's Tale.

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Ava Benny-Morrison

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 06:04:55 GMT

Crime reporter, Ava Benny-Morrison talks to Cheryl Akle about the shocking case that inspired her to write her book, The Lost Girls.

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Rebecca Hermann

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 00:20:31 GMT

Rebecca Hermann the founder of Bolinda Audio talks to Cheryl Akle about how and why she started the company, the importance of audio in publishing, and the future of audio books.

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Craig Ensor

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 05:37:56 GMT

Craig Ensor talks to Cheryl Akle about his career in law and the road to writing his novel, The Warming.

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Tess Woods

Thu, 04 Jul 2019 00:53:23 GMT

Author Tess Woods talks to Cheryl Akle about juggling two physiotherapy clinics with writing her latest novel, Love and Other Battles.

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Tom Keneally

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 05:47:25 GMT

Acclaimed author Tom Keneally talks to Cheryl Akle about his life, and incredible writing career, and his latest novel Two Old Men Dying. Here at Better Reading we consider Tom to be a National Treasure.

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Christine Courtenay

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 04:59:34 GMT

Christine Courtenay talks to Cheryl Akle about her late husband, bestselling author Bryce Courtenay, his writing, his incredible legacy and the 30-year anniversary of his novel, The Power of One.

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Victoria Purman

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 04:55:27 GMT

Victoria Purman talks to Cheryl Akle about the fascinating real-life women of her latest bestselling novel, The Land Girls.

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Alli Sinclair

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 23:28:30 GMT

Alli Sinclair talks to Cheryl Akle about her world adventures, climbing mountains and her new novel, The Cinema at Starlight Creek.

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Megan Blandford

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 02:41:40 GMT

Megan Blandford talks to Cheryl Akle about motherhood, her postnatal depression, and how she wrote her book, I'm Fine (and Other Lies) to help other women.

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Leigh Straw #2

Tue, 11 Jun 2019 23:30:53 GMT

Leigh Straw talks to Cheryl Akle about Australian women in crime history, including Dulcie Markham, a key figure of the underworld of Sydney and Melbourne, and the subject of her latest book, Angel Of Death: Dulcie Markham, Australia's Most Beautiful Bad Woman.

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Meg Bignell

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 23:36:02 GMT

Meg Bignell talks to Cheryl Akle about going from nursing to copywriting, living on a dairy farm, and her new book, The Sparkle Pages.

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Janet Fife-Yeomans

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 03:47:42 GMT

Award winning journalist Janet Fife-Yeomans talks to Cheryl Akle about how she wrote a book with Hazel Baron, the brave daughter who brought Dulcie Bodsworth, her serial killer mother to justice.

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Mikey Robins

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 04:42:47 GMT

Mikey Robbins speaks to Cheryl Akle about being a history nerd, a food lover, observer of bizarre human behaviour, and combining all three in his book, Seven Deadly Sins… and One Very Naught Fruit.

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Sally Rippin

Wed, 29 May 2019 05:28:43 GMT

Sally Rippin talks to Cheryl Akle about growing up as an expat kids in Asia, her prolific career as a children's author, and her latest book in the Polly and Buster series: The Search for the Silver Witch.

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Amanda Hampson

Tue, 28 May 2019 01:05:38 GMT

Amanda Hampson speaks to Cheryl Akle about long-term friendships, the freedom of ageing, how travel has changed, and her latest book, Sixty Summers.

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Paige Toon

Mon, 20 May 2019 02:42:47 GMT

Paige Toon joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss being raised all around the world, her writing career, and her latest novel, If You Could Go Anywhere.

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Melina Marchetta

Mon, 20 May 2019 02:04:32 GMT

Melina Marchetta joins Cheryl Akle to discuss growing up in an Australian-Italian family, her Australian classic, Looking for Alibrandi, and her latest novel, The Place on Dalhousie.

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Alice Clark-Platts

Wed, 15 May 2019 03:55:55 GMT

Alice Clark-Platts discusses human rights law, and what her research for her novel The Flower Girls taught her about children who kill.

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James Delargy

Tue, 14 May 2019 02:37:17 GMT

Irish author, James Delargy joins Cheryl Akle on this week's podcast to talk about his journey as a traveller, a writer, and why he chose outback Australia to set his bestselling novel, 55.

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Fatima Bhutto

Thu, 09 May 2019 07:40:58 GMT

Today Cheryl Akle talks to Fatima Bhutto about her life in Afghanistan, Syria and Pakistan, being raised by a single father, and how he shared a love of books and stories with her. This led to her career as a writer, and her latest novel The Runaways.

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Nicole Alexander

Wed, 08 May 2019 00:06:41 GMT

Nicole Alexander joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss being a fourth-generation grazier, her writing career, and her latest novel, Stone Country.

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Felicity McLean

Wed, 01 May 2019 01:50:06 GMT

Felicity McLean joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss her debut novel, The Van Apfel Girls are Gone. Together they discuss Felicity's career as a ghostwriter and how that, and a run-in with Bryan Brown, led to her writing her first novel.

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Susan Hurley

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 02:42:01 GMT

Susan Hurley joins Cheryl Akle on this week's podcast to talk about her novel, Eight Lives, and about Susan's career in medical research, the trial that inspired her novel, and her move from the pharmaceutical industry to writing.

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Minnie Darke

Wed, 24 Apr 2019 08:54:21 GMT

Minnie Darke talks to Cheryl Akle about astrology and her delightful new novel, Star-crossed.

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Kerry Tucker

Wed, 24 Apr 2019 06:32:24 GMT

Kerry Tucker, author of The Prisoner, talks about her journey going from a prison cell, to having a PhD and being an advocate for women prisoners.

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Josephine Moon

Tue, 16 Apr 2019 23:59:32 GMT

Josephine Moon joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss ‘Uplit', Authors for Farmers and the writing community, and her latest book The Gift of Life.

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Mary-Anne O'Connor

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 07:46:32 GMT

Mary-Anne O'Connor joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss growing up in a large, creative family, getting published, and her latest book In a Great Southern Land.

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J.R. Lonie

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 06:51:44 GMT

J.R. Lonie, author of The Woman From Saint Germain, joins Cheryl Akle on this week's podcast to talk about writing, screenwriting, and when it's time to call yourself a writer.

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Todd Alexander

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 06:21:05 GMT

Todd Alexander, the author of eleven books, joins Cheryl Akle on this week's podcast to talk about leaving the city to run a boutique accommodation business and vineyard in the Hunter Valley, and his new book Thirty Thousand Bottles of Wine and a Pig Called Helga.

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Jacqueline Harvey

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 06:57:40 GMT

Jacqueline Harvey joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss her passion for education, her bestselling Alice-Miranda series and her latest book for kids, Kensy and Max 3: Undercover.

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Chris Hammer

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 03:43:01 GMT

Chris Hammer, Australian journalist and bestselling author of hit crime novel, Scrublands, joins Cheryl Akle on this week's podcast to talk about Chris's move from non-fiction to fiction, and the real-life trip around Australia that inspired Chris to write Scrublands.

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Amy Goldstein

Sat, 30 Mar 2019 00:01:57 GMT

American writer Amy Goldstein joins Cheryl Akle to discuss her 2018 book, Janesville, a compelling and insightful portrait of one town in America's heartland, struggling to regain its footing after the closure of its General Motors plant in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis. Together, Amy and Cheryl discuss the hollowing of the American middle class, the decline of the American Dream, and what Amy learnt from her time in Janesville.

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Sulari Gentill

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 03:40:31 GMT

Acclaimed Australian author Sulari Gentill joins Cheryl Akle on this week's podcast to talk about her latest novel, All the Tears in China, and about Sulari's fascinating life and colourful career, which has seen her move from astrophysics to law to writing.

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Zack McDermott

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 07:04:13 GMT

Zack McDermott, Brooklyn public defender turned author, joins Cheryl Akle to discuss his memoir Gorilla and the Bird, a book that details his recovery after a devastating psychotic break. Together they discuss the stigma surrounding mental illness, and the steps he now takes to maintain his mental health.

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Toby Walsh

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 06:47:39 GMT

Toby Walsh, one of the world's leading researchers in Artificial Intelligence, joins Cheryl Akle to talk about his book It's Alive! Artificial Intelligence from the Logic Piano to Killer Robots. Together they discuss the scientific problems we need to solve in order to advance artificial intelligence technologies, and how scientists are developing these technologies.

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Tayari Jones

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 06:27:58 GMT

Tayari Jones, American author, joins Cheryl Akle to talk about her book An American Marriage. Together they discuss how Tayari came to be a writer, and the intricacies of human relationships.

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Kate Young

Sun, 24 Mar 2019 23:33:51 GMT

This week, Kate Young, award-winning food writer and cook, joins Cheryl Akle to discuss her book The Little Library Cookbook. Together they talk about Kate's love of all things food and literature, and how she came to be a successful food writer.

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Kerri Turner

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 23:53:54 GMT

Kerri Turner, historical fiction author, joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss her debut novel, The Last Days of the Romanov Dancers. Together they discuss Kerri's colourful career as both a dancer and writer, how her travel has informed her writing, and the importance of female representation in historical fiction.

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Fiona Lowe

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 23:47:17 GMT

Fiona Lowe, award-winning Australian author, joins Caroline Overington (standing in for Cheryl Akle) this week to discuss her latest novel Home Fires. Together they discuss Fiona's varied career in nursing, women's health, and midwifery, as well as the many ways in which Australia influences and inspires her writing.

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Cassie Hamer

Fri, 15 Mar 2019 03:23:05 GMT

Cassie Hamer, first-time author with a professional background in journalism and PR, joins Cheryl Akle to discuss her debut novel After the Party. Together they discuss Cassie's career journey, and how she came to be a writer.

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Dervla McTiernan

Tue, 12 Mar 2019 02:06:58 GMT

Dervla McTiernan, bestselling author of The Ruin, joins Cheryl Akle to discuss her latest novel, The Scholar. Together they discuss Dervla's success as a writer, and the difficulties of writing the follow-up to a bestseller.

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Brandy Scott

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 04:17:52 GMT

Brandy Scott, radio presenter and debut writer, speaks to Cheryl Akle about her new book Not Bad People, as well as her varied career and experience living abroad.

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Ben Okri

Wed, 06 Mar 2019 01:32:45 GMT

Ben Okri, award-winning novelist and poet, joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss books, ideas, and the fears and anxieties that we face in today's modern world.

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Jackie French

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 00:30:54 GMT

Jackie French, award-winning Australian author, joins Cheryl Akle this week to discuss her vibrant career and to share her infectious love of books and reading.

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Jennifer Spence

Wed, 27 Feb 2019 05:23:10 GMT

Jennifer Spence talks to Cheryl Akle this week about her latest novel, The Lost Girls. Together they discuss the craft of writing, the power of story-telling, and the importance of books.

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Michael Mosley

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 04:07:30 GMT

Dr Michael Mosley, international bestselling author and 'gut health guru' joins Cheryl Akle to discuss his latest book, The Fast 800. Together they talk about how the modern diet has changed over the past 30 years, and the everyday healthy choices that we can make to improve our lives.

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Literary Scandals and Hoaxes

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 23:58:52 GMT

As the scandal surrounding the less than truthful A.J. Finn grows, author and journalist Caroline Overington talks to Cheryl Akle about the impact on the bestselling author and his reputation - and they remember another literary hoax, much closer to home.

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Anna Funder

Thu, 14 Feb 2019 23:30:01 GMT

Anna Funder, acclaimed and award-winning Australian author, joins Cheryl this week to discuss her bestselling book Stasiland. Together they discuss Anna's journey as a writer, and the political history of East Germany.

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Carly Findlay

Tue, 12 Feb 2019 23:48:26 GMT

Carly Findlay, writer, speaker, and appearance activist, speaks to Cheryl Akle this week about her new book Say Hello, and her experience of living with a rare skin condition.

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AJ Finn

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 06:35:31 GMT

This week, Caroline Overington (stepping in for Cheryl Akle) is joined by New York Times and internationally bestselling author A. J. Finn to discuss his debut novel The Woman in the Window. Together they discuss the author's experiences working for a decade in publishing, the mental health challenges he has faced, and the incredible success of his book.

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Myffy Rigby

Tue, 05 Feb 2019 00:47:25 GMT

This week Cheryl Akle is joined by Good Food Guide Editor Myffy Rigby to discuss the 2019 Good Food Guide. Together they talk about all things food, and Myffy's incredible industry experiences.

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